Here at CL Gupta Eye Institute, we serve for the eye care excellence. Observing the gap in the eye care services, we have started the ROP services in Moradabad not only within out clgei campus, we have initiated the ROP screening project to serve nearby areas of Moradabad starting from 2020.
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an eye disease affecting premature infants (small children) where the blood vessels inside the sensitive layers of eye (retina) grow abnormally, potentially leading to vision loss or blindness. It's caused by the disruption of normal vessel development, which can increase the problem due to increased oxygen levels in neonatal care, and is diagnosed through an eye exam by a pediatric ophthalmologist & screening by a trained Optometrist.
Mild cases may resolve on their own, but moderate to severe cases require treatment like laser therapy or injections to prevent complications such as retinal detachment.
Causes and Risk Factors
Premature birth: The primary cause is the incomplete development of retinal blood vessels at birth. The vessels normally finish growing in the final weeks of pregnancy, and an early birth disrupts this process.
Oxygen therapy: While necessary for premature babies, supplemental oxygen can worsen abnormal vessel growth.
Low birth weight:Babies with very low birth weight (less than 1500 grams) are at a higher risk.
Gestational age: : Infants born before 30-31 weeks of gestation are most at risk.
Symptoms
No early symptoms: Mild ROP often has no visible signs, making early screening essential.
Advanced stage symptoms: In more severe cases, symptoms may include:
White pupils (leukocoria)
Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
Not responding appropriately to light
Stages
Stage 1: Mildly abnormal blood vessel growth
Stage 2: Moderately abnormal blood vessel growth
Stage 3: Severely abnormal blood vessel growth
Stage 4: Partial retinal detachment
Stage 5: Complete retinal detachment, which can lead to blindness even with treatment
Treatment and prevention
Screening: Regular eye exams by an ophthalmologist are crucial for early detection and treatment.
Treatment: Mild cases often resolve on their own, but more advanced stages can be treated with:
Laser therapy Anti-VEGF therapy injections
Surgery: Surgery may be necessary for severe cases like a detached retina (Stage 4 or 5).