Retinopathy of Prematurity

Abstract

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), formerly called retro-lental fibroplasia (RLF), has increased in the 1980s due to a high incidence of premature, low birthweight infants. Apparently, oxygen administration alone does not account for all these ROP babies. Birth-weight, gestational age, and duration of administration of oxygen are primary contributors to ROP development. The stages of severity range from no visual damage to total blindness. Treatments are either pharmacological or surgical. Vitamin E therapy, photocoagulation procedures, cryotherapy, scleral buckling procedures, and vitrectomy are common treatments, but none is totally successful in ameliorating this condition. The educational problems of children with ROP parallel those of other visually impaired children, with deficits found primarily in exploration, mobility, and language. Referral to early intervention programs can provide a comprehensive structured learning situation and support to the entire family.