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Physicians face challenges treating ROP in extremely premature infants
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SAN FRANCISCO — The increasing viability of extremely premature infants has correlated with a rising incidence of retinopathy of prematurity, according to a study presented here.
John T. Flynn, MD, outlined increasing challenges associated with ROP at the joint meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology.
The introduction of medically pure oxygen in 1942 enabled physicians to save an increasing number of premature infants. But the oxygen treatment has contributed to problems such as ROP-related blindness and vision loss.
Since the 1970s, pediatric ophthalmologists have been able to minimize or cure ROP by applying treatments designed for adult diabetic retinopathy. However, with increasingly smaller infants being saved, ROP is more prevalent and more challenging than ever, Dr. Flynn said.
"It is time for pediatric ophthalmologists to reassess how best to screen and treat their smallest, frailest patients," Dr. Flynn said.