Expanding insights into the Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is an eye disease that could happen in babies born early (premature) or who often, though not always, weigh less than 2000 grams at birth. ROP occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina. 

ROP is an emerging epidemic of the 21st century and is attributed to increased premature deliveries, often associated with teenage pregnancies, malnourished mothers, assisted fertilization, and delayed pregnancies.

ROP is a rapidly progressive, time-bound disease that is not present at birth but develops over a few weeks. The condition is characterised by the development of abnormally proliferating new vessels in the retina, leading to tractional retinal detachment and vision loss. ROP typically starts 3 to 4 weeks after birth, providing a window for screening and initiating treatment at the right time before it progresses in the next few weeks to a stage of retinal detachment that results in incurable blindness. Timely screening of all premature-born at risk babies and timely intervention with adequate follow-up care can prevent the sight-threatening consequences of ROP.