Retinopathy of prematurity Flashcards
Who does retinopathy prematurity affect?
A condition affecting preterm and low birth weight babies
What is retinopathy of prematurity due to?
Abnormal development of the blood vessels in the retina can lead to;
* Scarring
* Retinal detachment
* Blindness.
Which babies should be screened for retinopathy of prematurity?
Babies born before 32 weeks or under 1.5kg
When does screening star for babies born before 27 weeks?
30 – 31 weeks gestational age
When does screening star for babies born after 27 weeks?
4 – 5 weeks of age
When should screening occur?
Every 2 weeks
When can screening be stopped?
Once the retinal vessels enter zone 3, usually at around 36 weeks gestation.
What is the first line management of retinopathy of prematurity?
transpupillary laser photocoagulation
What are alternative options for retinopathy of prematurity?
Cryotherapy
Injections of intravitreal VEGF inhibitors
When might you need to preform surgery?
If retinal detachment occurs
What is retinopathy of prematurity?
The abnormal proliferation of blood vessels in the retinas of premature babies
How can retinopathy of prematurity present?
Asymptomatic
Only detected through regular screening
What happens in most cases of retinopathy of prematurity?
Resolves spontaneously
What is a possible contributing factor to retinopathy of prematurity?
Over oxygenation (e.g. during ventilation) resulting in a proliferation of retinal blood vessels
