Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)

Retinopathy of Prematurity – ROP, is a vascular proliferative disease only present in premature newborns. The absence of vessels in the premature retina, leads to retinal ischemia (lack of blood supply/oxygen) which triggers vascular endothelia growth factor (VEGF). This is a signalling protein that promotes neovascularization (the growth of new blood vessels). However, these abnormal blood vessels can bleed, creating vision-impairing hemorrhages, scar tissue, and separation of the retina from the back of the eye (retinal detachment), which could lead to blindness.

ROP is a potentially blinding disease in premature infants. A comprehensive knowledge of the disease, such as guidelines for screening, risk factors and treatment options helps aid in preventing the disease to progress to visual impairment and/or blindness in these infants.

At the end of the presentation, the clinician will be able to:

• Understand what is ROP
• Understand screening guidelines for ROP
• Understand risk factors for ROP
• Understand the zones and stage of ROP
• Understand treatment options for ROP

To to take this course you need to be a registered member on the Vision Care Academy!