Retinopathy
Of Prematurity (ROP)Introduction: If a premature
baby weighs less than 1500 grams (3 lbs. 5 oz.), there is a danger that the eyes
will get damaged. If a baby weighs less than 1000 grams (2 1/5 lbs.) more than
80% of them will develop retinopathy
of prematurity (ROP). Several stages of severity of this condition
are shown in this link. This condition developed as a result of prolonged exposure
to 100% oxygen that was given in the past for breathing problems with premature
babies. Studies
have been undertaken to show that with lower concetrations of oxygen used
in the crib, ROP and blindness can be prevented.
With
ROP the normal development of the eye stops and an abnormal blood vessel growth
occurs. In today's high risk premature nurseries eye specialists and neonatologists
are examining the eyes of premature babies all the time and watch very closely
that oxygen is not given at too high a concentration. Signs
and symptoms: Depending on how much new vascular growth
occurred, vision can be impaired more or less. Diagnostic tests: These
children need to be seen by an eye doctor on a frequent basis with ophthalmological
examinations .These children are more prone to myopia, lazy eyes
(amblyopia) and strabismus. If there are scarred retinal folds, the child will
be more prone later in life to have retinal detachments. Yearly examinations even
when there has been a good outcome should be done to prevent later problems. Treatment: It
has already been shown and it is being studied further how much early treatment
of ROP benefits patients. Here is a link with other procedures such as cryopexy
and others to treat the excessive proliferation of blood vessels
in an attempt to prevent retinal detachment and blindness later in life.
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