Retinopathy of Prematurity: History, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Authors

Henry Nguyen, BS, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Ayra Khan, BS, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Flavius Beca, MD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Yoshihiro Yonekawa, MD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow

Abstract

Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a vasoproliferative disorder that remains a leading cause of preventable childhood blindness worldwide. This review examines the current understanding of ROP's pathophysiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. ROP develops in two distinct phases: an initial hyperoxic phase, denoted by decreased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), followed by a hypoxic phase, where increasing levels of VEGF trigger pathological neovascularization. Currently, the most effective therapeutics for management are laser photocoagulation and anti-VEGF therapies. The current paradigm in ROP management is shifting toward earlier identification, better risk stratification, and integration of digital screening technologies and standardizing regional care protocols worldwide.

Recommended Citation

Nguyen, BS, Henry; Khan, BS, Ayra; Beca, MD, Flavius; and Yonekawa, MD, Yoshihiro (2025) "Retinopathy of Prematurity: History, Diagnosis, and Treatment," inSIGHT: Vol. 5: Iss. 1, Article 10.
Available at: https://jdc.jefferson.edu/insight/vol5/iss1/10