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Retinopathy
of Prematurity (ROP)
Premature babies have an
increased risk of developing eye problems in particular Retinopathy
of Prematurity (ROP).
ROP can occur in preterm
infants because the blood supply to the eyes (retina) has
not fully developed and when born early the growth can be
disrupted. Although the incidence of severe ROP is low if
left untreated it may result in blindness.
Many factors are thought to contribute to
the development of ROP one of which may be oxygen toxicity.
Close monitoring of oxygenation is may help to reduce the
incidence of ROP however as yet so little is known about why
ROP develops that preventative treatments do not exist.
As prevention is not possible regularly
eye examination is performed in babies born at less than 32
weeks or with a birth weight under 1500grams, if problems
are seen then treatment will be offered. This treatment has
proven to be effected in reducing blindness.
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