Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is an eye condition that affects some premature babies and, if not detected and treated early, can lead to serious vision problems. With timely screening, close monitoring, and appropriate treatment, most babies with ROP can preserve good vision.
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a potentially blinding eye disorder that affects premature infants, particularly those:
ROP affects the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that is essential for vision. The smaller and more premature a baby is at birth, the higher the risk of developing ROP.
In a full-term pregnancy, the blood vessels in the retina complete their development just before birth. When a baby is born prematurely, this normal development is interrupted.
Outside the womb, retinal blood vessels may:
In more severe cases, these abnormal vessels can bleed, form scar tissue, and pull the retina away from the back of the eye, causing retinal detachment, a serious condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated.
No. Not all premature babies develop ROP.
Babies most at risk are those who:
The more premature and medically fragile the infant, the higher the risk. Advances in neonatal care mean more premature babies survive today, which is why ROP screening is now routine and essential.
Babies who meet screening criteria are usually examined 4–6 weeks after birth.
This is what parents can expect to happen during a ROP screening:
While the process may look uncomfortable, it is brief and carefully performed, with your baby’s safety and comfort as the top priority.
ROP is classified based on location (zones) and severity (stages). The lower the zone (i.e. zone I), the closer the abnormal vessels are to the centre of the retina, and therefore the higher the threat to vision. ROP severity is classified into 5 stages, with stage 1 being the mildest form and stage 5 being the most severe.
Doctors also assess for “plus disease”, which refers to severely dilated and twisted retinal blood vessels. Plus disease signals rapid progression and the need for urgent treatment.
Laser treatment and anti-VEGF injections significantly reduces the risk of severe vision loss, but it does not guarantee perfect vision in every case. A small number of very premature or critically ill infants may still experience progression despite timely care.
This is why regular follow-up appointments are crucial, even after treatment appears successful.
schedule an appointment today and get support for your child’s Eye needs.
Children born prematurely, especially those who had ROP, are at higher risk of developing:
Even after ROP has resolved, ongoing eye examinations are essential to support healthy visual development through childhood.
Medical Director, Consultant Ophthalmologist
Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist
Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist
Disclaimer:
The information on the The Children’s Eye & ENT Centre website is intended for educational use. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health professional.