Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026
Transcutaneous Microcirculatory Imaging in Preterm Neonates
Published on: December 31, 2015
Retinopathy of Prematurity Screening of Preterm Infants With Icteric Vitreous
Ashley López-Cañizares1, Natasha Ferreira Santos da Cruz1, Hasenin Al-Khersan1
1Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, FL, USA.
Insights
Premature infants with hyperbilirubinemia and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) experienced vitreous opacification, hindering examination. Intravitreal bevacizumab was used to manage ROP and opacification until infants were healthier.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Premature infants are susceptible to retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
- Hyperbilirubinemia can cause vitreous opacification, complicating ROP assessment.
- Frail health status in neonates presents challenges for eye examinations.
Abstract:
Purpose: To present 2 cases of premature newborns with hyperbilirubinemia and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) who could not be examined properly to assess for disease progression because of vitreous opacification in the setting of an icteric vitreous and frail health status. Methods: The cases and their findings were analyzed. Results: Given the sickness of the neonates and examination difficulty, intravitreal bevacizumab was administered in both eyes to prevent disease progression. During subsequent examinations, the patients remained stable until discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit and were followed in the outpatient clinic without complication. Conclusions: The ROP and vitreous opacification in our cases were thought to be caused by hyperbilirubinemia. Because of vitreous opacification, these patients could not be properly examined for ROP. Treatment with an intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor injection might be considered to delay disease development until the newborn is healthier and able to be examined.
