What is Premature Retinopathy?
It is an eye disease seen in premature infants that causes retinal damage and can result in blindness. One of the most important eye problems in premature infants is "premature retinopathy" (Retinopathy of Prematurity - ROP). Early diagnosis and treatment of retinopathy in premature infants are crucial. Normally, the vascular system in a baby’s eyes continues to develop until birth. In early and low-birth-weight deliveries, this development process is incomplete at the time of birth. After birth, development continues. Under the influence of several risk factors, the blood vessels in the eye may develop abnormally. These new vessels can affect the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, potentially leading to permanent blindness. Therefore, it is essential that premature infants are regularly examined and monitored by an ophthalmologist.
What Are the Risk Factors?
Several factors play a role in the development of premature retinopathy. The most important include early gestational age, low birth weight, and the duration of oxygen therapy. Recurrent respiratory distress, preterm birth, severe infections, rapid blood exchange or number of blood transfusions, intracranial hemorrhage, underdeveloped lungs, or heart defects also increase the risk of retinopathy.
All infants born before 32 weeks of gestation and weighing less than 1500 grams are considered at risk.
When Does It Occur?
Premature retinopathy most frequently appears around the 6th to 8th week after birth. In infants born at 28 weeks, it can be observed starting from the 40th day.
When Should Screening Be Performed?
The ideal timing for screening at-risk infants is between 32–36 weeks of gestational age (particularly 31–33 weeks) or 4–6 weeks after birth. Therefore, all infants in the risk group mentioned above should be examined by an experienced ophthalmologist when they are 4–6 weeks old. Infants hospitalized during this period are examined in the incubator.
Stages of the Disease
This disease affects the blood vessels in the retinal layer and has 5 stages. Stages 1 and 2 may regress spontaneously. These infants should be monitored until the retina fully matures (usually around the original due date). However, starting from stage 3, laser therapy or cryotherapy is required. Without treatment, the disease progresses, and in the final stages (4–5), the retinal layer suffers irreversible damage. Surgical correction becomes less likely, and ultimately, blindness may occur. In summary, premature retinopathy is a serious health problem that can lead to blindness if not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner.