The global increase in preterm births is driving a troubling trend in ophthalmology clinics: a surge in premature infants requiring urgent eye care. Born before 37 weeks of gestation, these infants face elevated risks for ocular disorders such as strabismus, cataracts, and corneal anomalies. Yet, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) remains the most common and severe threat to their vision.
In full-term infants, retinal blood vessels complete their development by birth. In contrast, preterm infants are born with immature vasculature, rendering their retinas vulnerable. Post-birth exposure to ambient air or supplemental oxygen can trigger abnormal constriction of these vessels, leading to disrupted development or complete vessel closure.
“ROP emerges from the abrupt environmental shift premature infants endure after birth,” said Seunghoon Lee, MD, director of First Eye Clinic. “Abnormal growth or suppression of retinal blood vessels can impair vision, with infants born before 32 weeks at greatest risk.”
The condition’s silent progression compounds its danger. ROP often presents no visible symptoms, eluding detection by parents or caregivers. Without intervention, it can advance to severe visual impairment or blindness. Dr. Lee emphasized that retinal screenings, conducted within four to six weeks of birth, significantly enhance the likelihood of preserving vision.
ROP is categorized into four stages. Stages 1 and 2 frequently resolve without intervention, but stages 3 and beyond typically require prompt treatment. Untreated advanced cases may result in lifelong visual disability.
For severe ROP, treatments such as laser photocoagulation or intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections are used to suppress aberrant vessel growth. Treatment timing is tailored to the disease’s progression and the infant’s overall health.
Even after successful intervention, risks persist. Complications like myopia, strabismus, amblyopia, or glaucoma may develop, necessitating long-term ophthalmologic monitoring to support healthy visual outcomes.
Dr. Lee underscored the critical role of parental involvement alongside medical expertise. “Early diagnosis and treatment are essential, but consistent parental engagement in regular screenings is what truly protects these infants’ vision,” he said.
At First Eye Clinic, Dr. Lee and Director SamYoung Yun, MD, are committed to advancing care for preterm infants, employing cutting-edge diagnostics and therapies to combat ROP and preserve sight. As preterm births rise, their efforts highlight the pressing need for awareness and action to address this growing public health challenge.
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Health In News Team Kim Kuk Ju
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