» Why Does ROP Occur?

In full-term babies, retinal blood vessels complete their growth before birth.
In premature babies:

• Retinal blood vessels are immature

• Oxygen fluctuations can disturb normal growth

• Abnormal blood vessels may form

• These vessels can bleed or pull the retina away

This process can damage the retina and affect lifelong vision.

» Babies at High Risk of ROP

ROP mainly affects babies who:

• Are born prematurely

• Have low birth weight (usually below 1.5 kg)

• Require oxygen therapy

• Have breathing difficulties

• Have infections or unstable health after birth

The smaller and more premature the baby, the higher the risk.

» Stages of Retinopathy of Prematurity

ROP is classified into stages based on severity:

Stage 1 – Mild ROP

• Mild abnormal vessel growth

• Often improves on its own

• Requires close monitoring

Stage 2 – Moderate ROP

• More abnormal vessel development

• Still may resolve naturally

• Needs regular eye check-ups

Stage 3 – Severe ROP

• Severe abnormal vessel growth

• High risk of retinal damage

• Requires urgent attention

Stage 4 & 5 – Advanced ROP

• Partial or total retinal detachment

• Can cause permanent vision loss or blindness

• Vision-saving intervention becomes critical

» Signs & Symptoms of ROP

⚠️ ROP usually has NO visible symptoms in early stages

Parents may notice signs only in advanced stages, such as:

• White reflection in the pupil

• Abnormal eye movements

• Poor visual response

• Squint

👉 This is why routine screening is extremely important for premature babies.

» Importance of Early ROP Screening

ROP can progress silently and rapidly.
Early eye screening allows:

• Detection before vision is affected

• Timely intervention

• Prevention of blindness

» When Is ROP Screening Done?

• Usually between 2–4 weeks after birth

• Multiple follow-ups may be required depending on risk and findings

» How Is ROP Diagnosed?

ROP is diagnosed through a special retinal examination performed by a trained pediatric retina specialist.

The examination:

• Is quick and safe

• Can be done in the NICU or eye clinic

• Helps determine stage and need for monitoring or treatment

» Management & Care (Overview)

ROP management depends on:

• Stage of disease

• Rate of progression

• Overall health of the baby

Early-stage ROP may only need close monitoring, while advanced stages require specialised retinal care.

Timely management significantly improves visual outcomes.

» Long-Term Vision Outlook

• Many mild cases resolve completely

• Severe untreated ROP can lead to permanent blindness

• Children with ROP need long-term eye follow-up

Early detection offers the best chance for normal vision development.

» When Should Parents Seek Immediate Help?

Parents should ensure urgent evaluation if:

• Baby was premature or low birth weight

• ROP screening was advised but missed

• Any abnormal eye appearance is noticed

👶 ROP is preventable blindness—if detected early.