Condition

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)

Medical reviewer Mr Mohamed Mohyudin, Consultant Ophthalmic SurgeonArticle reviewed

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Retinopathy of prematurity at a glance

Side-view diagram of the eye with the retinal blood vessels and retina highlighted: the parts of the eye involved in retinopathy of prematurity.
Where it affects the eye: Retinal blood vessels and retina. Simplified side view of the eye. It shows location, not how severe a condition is.
Part of the eye
Retinal blood vessels and retina
Treatment options
Condition group
Retina and optic nerve
Medical code (ICD-10)
H35.1

What is retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)?

ROP affects the developing retina in babies born early, when blood vessels have not finished growing normally. In some cases vessels grow abnormally and can pull on or scar the retina, risking vision loss.

Who is affected

ROP is screened in babies born very prematurely or at very low birth weight, following national guidelines. Parents of premature babies should know that eye screening is routine and not a sign that something has already gone wrong.

  • Babies born before about 31 weeks or under about 1.5 kg birth weight in many programmes
  • Screening in hospital before discharge and sometimes after
  • Most babies have mild changes that resolve

Detection and treatment

Specialist examination of the retina detects ROP and grades its severity. Mild disease is monitored. Severe cases may need laser treatment, injections into the eye, or surgery to protect vision.

Long-term follow-up

Children who had ROP, especially if treated, need ongoing eye checks for short-sightedness, squint, lazy eye and glaucoma. Early support helps children reach their best vision.

Practical guides

Newborn eye dischargeSticky or watery eyes in babies are common; blocked tear ducts usually settle, but redness or swelling needs prompt review.Children's eye healthVision screening, spotting a squint, and sensible screen-time habits for growing eyes.

Treatments & Surgery

ROP treatmentLaser, injections or surgery for severe retinopathy of prematurity when screening finds treatable disease.

Frequently asked questions

Why are premature babies screened for eye problems?

Premature birth interrupts normal retinal vessel development, which can lead to ROP. Screening finds treatable disease early, which is why neonatal units follow structured eye check programmes.

Can retinopathy of prematurity be cured?

Many mild cases resolve on their own. Severe ROP can be treated with laser, injections or surgery to reduce vision loss, which is why screening timing matters.

Will my child need glasses after ROP?

Many children who had ROP develop short-sightedness or other focusing problems and benefit from regular eye care through childhood.

Your next step

Take this to your appointment

Write down what has changed, when it started, your current medicines and the questions you want answered. Take these to your eye-care appointment.

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Sudden loss of sight, severe eye pain or a dark curtain across vision needs immediate assessment. Do not wait to complete a worksheet.

Sources for this information

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