Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 7, 2026

Monitoring Dynamic Growth of Retinal Vessels in Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy Mouse Model
Published on: April 2, 2021
Retinopathy of prematurity
Deepak Chawla1, Ramesh Agarwal, Ashok Deorari
1Department of Pediatrics, Government Medical College, Chandigarh, India.
Insights
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening is crucial for preterm infants. Early detection and treatment of ROP improve visual outcomes, requiring collaboration between ophthalmologists and neonatologists.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Perinatology
Background:
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is caused by abnormal retinal vessel proliferation.
- Key risk factors include oxygen therapy, anemia, sepsis, and apnea.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline screening, diagnosis, and management protocols for ROP.
- To emphasize early intervention for better visual outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Screening ROP in high-risk neonates (e.g., <32 weeks gestation) starting at 1 month postnatal age.
- Follow-up planning based on ROP location and stage.
- Peripheral retinal ablation with diode laser for severe ROP.
Main Results:
- Early treatment of ROP at a lower threshold leads to better visual outcomes.
- Diode laser ablation under analgesia and sedation is the preferred treatment for severe ROP.
Conclusions:
- Close collaboration between ophthalmologists and neonatologists is essential for successful ROP management.
- Adherence to established guidelines for examination and treatment is vital.
Abstract:
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) occurs due to abnormal proliferation of retinal vessels. The most important risk factors which predispose to development of ROP include oxygen therapy, anemia needing blood transfusion, sepsis and apnea. Very low birth weight neonates, those born at ≤ 32 week of gestation and other preterm neonates with risk factors must be screened for ROP. As a general rule first screening should be done at 1 month of postnatal age. If screening detects ROP not needing treatment follow up should be planned according to location and stage of ROP. Better visual outcomes are observed with earlier treatment at lower threshold. Peripheral retinal ablation with diode laser under adequate analgesia and sedation is the preferred method for treatment of severe ROP. Guidelines regarding the procedure of dilatation, ophthalmic examination and treatment (if required) have been provided in the protocol. Close co-operation between the ophthalmologist and neonatologist is essential for successful management of ROP.
Related Concept Videos
Diabetic Retinopathy
The Retinoblastoma Gene
The first-ever tumor suppressor gene called Rb was identified in retinoblastoma - a rare eye tumor in children. In inherited forms of the disease, a child inherits one defective copy of the Rb gene, which predisposes them to retinoblastoma. However,...
The Retinoblastoma Gene
The first-ever tumor suppressor gene called Rb was identified in retinoblastoma - a rare eye tumor in children. In inherited forms of the disease, a child inherits one defective copy of the Rb gene, which predisposes them to retinoblastoma. However,...
Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways
The Retina

