RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY

This condition also known as retrolental fibroplasia or terry syndrome is the formation of abnormal blood vessels in the retina of a new born ( especially babies born before term).

Normally retinal vessels starts growing from the 4th month of pregnancy and stops at the 9th month. So when babies are born before term, the retinal develops abnormal blood vessels. Secondly the  low oxygen levels the child is exposed to also triggers the formation of abnormal blood vessels.

Causes includes, hypoxia,  premature baby, babies below 3 pounds weight are also at risk of ROP,

Treatment usually involves laser procedures