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Retinopathy of prematurity
I Ben Sira1, I Nissenkorn, I Kremer
1Department of Ophthalmology, Beilinson Medical Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.
Survey of Ophthalmology
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a potentially blinding disease in premature infants. While prevention is challenging, cryotherapy shows promise in treating advanced stages of this multifactorial condition.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Perinatal Medicine
Background:
- Increased survival of premature infants has led to a resurgence of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
- ROP is a complex, multifactorial disease influenced by factors including oxygen exposure, birth weight, gestational age, and oxidative stress.
- Current understanding of ROP pathogenesis highlights the role of oxygen radicals in the immature retina.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advances in understanding ROP pathogenesis and evolution.
- To discuss the multifactorial nature and prevention challenges of ROP.
- To evaluate current and emerging treatment modalities for ROP.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on ROP pathogenesis, risk factors, and treatment.
- Analysis of data from a large multicenter study on ROP treatment efficacy.
- Discussion of the need for a standardized international classification for ROP.
Main Results:
- Prevention of ROP remains difficult despite advanced monitoring and oxygen restriction.
- Cryotherapy, photocoagulation, and vitrectomy are used for advanced ROP.
- Preliminary results from a multicenter study indicate cryotherapy is effective.
Conclusions:
- ROP is a significant concern in neonatal intensive care due to increased survival of very premature infants.
- Effective prevention strategies for ROP are still lacking.
- Cryotherapy is a promising treatment for advanced ROP, supported by multicenter study data.