EC Microbiology

Introduction: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disease that threatens the eyesight of preterm and low-birthweight infants. Historically the disease was more common in developed countries, but now its occurrence has increased in developing countries as well. The disease progresses in two phases, namely vaso-occlusion and vaso-proliferation. Various risk factors exist for ROP, according to which criteria for the screening are developed in different countries. Diagnosis is usually made by using an ophthalmoscope and graded according to the amount of vaso-proliferation. Based on grading, treatment may be carried out medically, surgically, and most commonly, by using LASER.

Aim of Work: The aim of this study is to review retinopathy of prematurity.

Materials and Methods: Comprehensive research of retinopathy of prematurity epidemiology, Etiopathogenesis, and management. PUBMED search engines were the primary database used for the search process from the year 1988 to 2022.

Conclusion: Despite decades of research, retinopathy of prematurity continues to be a trial for neonatal ophthalmologists. As maternity healthcare improves across the globe, more cases of ROP are emerging. Several treatment strategies exist that significantly reduce the occurrence of ROP, but they also carry risks of complications. Preventive measures with better maternal healthcare, early detection with modern biomarkers, and timely intervention with appropriate therapy can improve the lives of thousands of voiceless infants.

Keywords: Retinopathy of Prematurity; Premature Infant; Vasoproliferative Eye Disease; Low Birth Weight

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