Late sequelae of retinopathy of prematurity in adolescence and adulthood

Abstract

This article provides information about late complications of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), especially seen in adolescence and adulthood. The majority of ROP patients recover without complications and treatment, but severe ROP cases should be properly treated. Both prematurity itself and the treatment of ROP cause some changes in the anterior (refractive changes, cataract, and glaucoma) and posterior segments (tractional, rhegmatogenous and exudative retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, etc.,) of the eye and predispose to significant lifelong complications. Awareness of these late complications can minimize severe vision loss with proper follow-up and appropriate treatment. Therefore, life-long ophthalmological follow-up is mandatory in all prematures with the diagnosis of ROP.