pediatrics
Retinopathy of Prematurity
Key Points
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) typically develops in infants weighing < 1500 g and < 30 weeks gestation at birth, particularly those who had serious medical complications or who received excessive and/or prolonged oxygen therapy. Risk increases with increasing prematurity. Most cases subside spontaneously, but a small number develop retinal detachment and vision loss 2 to 12 months postpartum. Screen at-risk infants by ophthalmoscopic examination (done by an ophthalmologist) beginning at 31 weeks gestation. Treat severe ROP using laser photocoagulation orbevacizumab. Minimize use of supplemental oxygen after premature birth. 