# Retinopathy of Prematurity

Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/treatments/retinopathy-of-prematurity

**Author:** Kudret Eye İstanbul | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Nail Sönmez | **Date:** 2026-09-13

> **Summary:** Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an eye disease in premature and low birth weight babies in which abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina, which can damage nerve cells and lead to vision loss or blindness. Early stages have no symptoms, so regular screening examinations of babies at risk are essential for early diagnosis and treatment.

## Quick Facts
- **First examination:** Usually 4-6 weeks after birth
- **Examination:** Takes a few minutes, with anaesthetic drops as it can be uncomfortable
- **Follow-up interval:** 1-2 weeks (high risk) or 3-4 weeks (low risk)
- **Follow-up until:** Retinal vessels are fully developed, around 45-50 weeks

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## What is Retinopathy of Prematurity?
In premature babies the retinal vessels are not fully developed and keep developing after birth. In ROP they grow abnormally, may fail to carry oxygen and nutrients to the retina and may damage nerve cells, leading to vision loss and even blindness.

**Later-stage symptoms:**
- Strabismus
- A white appearance in the pupil
- Not following light or objects with the eyes
- Loss of vision

## Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is unknown; premature birth and low birth weight are the most important risk factors. High or fluctuating oxygen levels and infection can affect vessel development.
- Born before 32 weeks of gestation or under 1500 grams: highest risk.
- Birth weight under 2000 grams increases the risk.
- Respiratory support after birth.
- Congenital heart disease.
- Blood infections.
- Haemorrhage in the brain ventricles.

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## Screening Examination

### How it is done
- Pupils are dilated with drops; anaesthetic drops may be used to relax the baby.
- The ophthalmologist examines the retina with an indirect ophthalmoscope at different angles; it takes a few minutes.
- In intensive care, it can be done with portable devices.

### When and how often
- All babies in the risk group should be examined regularly after birth.
- First examination usually 4-6 weeks after birth.
- Very preterm babies (less than 30 weeks or less than 1250 grams): the first examination must not be delayed and is timed not to take place before 31 weeks of corrected age.
- Then every 1-2 weeks for high risk or every 3-4 weeks for low risk, until the retinal vessels are fully developed, around 45-50 weeks.

## Treatment
Chosen by stage and severity; some babies need one treatment, others more than one.
- **Monitoring:** mild ROP may regress spontaneously, followed with regular examinations.
- **Laser photocoagulation:** laser light destroys the abnormal vessels.
- **Anti-VEGF injections:** medication into the eye to stop abnormal vessel growth.
- **Vitrectomy:** removes the vitreous gel and destroys the abnormal vessels.

## Price
The price varies with the underlying cause and treatment; the plan is set after a detailed examination.