Pathogenesis and Management of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Premature Infants

Abstract

ReviewPage 62 ABSTRACTRetinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) continues to be a major cause of preventable blindness in considerable parts of the world, including developing countries. The incidence of ROP varies with the level of neonatal care; adequate screening and follow-up of these infants is essential for intervention to occur at the appropriate time. Even though the pathophysiology is not certain, oxygen and its interaction with angiogenic factors plays a central role in the development of the disease. Despite the role of oxygen in the pathogenesis of ROP, optimal oxygen saturation in the first few weeks of life in the premature infant remains unclear. Current treatment strategies include ablation of the peripheral avascular retina, management of abnormal vasoproliferation in late stages of disease and visual rehabilitation. A team effort involving neonatologists, ophthalmologists and excellent nursing care will go a long way in not only decreasing the incidence of ROP but also in building a strong screening and follow-up program, which is critical in the management of these patients.

Risk Factors of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Tertiary Hospital

“…(4) The reduction of VEGF and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) disrupts normal angiogenesis and retinal vascularization. (5) Preterm infants born at < 31 weeks gestation and low birth weight infants (<1250 g) are frequently affected by ROP, according to the National Eye Institute. Every year, about 14.000-16.000 infants out of 3.9 million births in the United States suffers from retinopathy of prematurity.…”