The Prenatal Consult (Part V)

This is part V of a series of posts which also currently includes part I,  part II ,  part III, and part IV.
The next topic that I cover with parents during a prenatal consult is retinopathy of prematurity or ROP. This is another complication that relates to neurodevelopmental outcome as severe ROP can cause blindness. I start by explaining that this complication also increases in likelihood and severity with decreasing gestational age. I continue by explaining that as a fetus develops in the womb, the small and fragile blood vessels that supply the back of the eye or retina don't grow into the area completely until somewhere around 32-34 weeks gestation. As these blood vessels proliferate and grow, oxygen is toxic to the process. A baby in the womb is exposed to considerably less oxygen than a baby outside of the womb. In addition, premies often have lung disease that requires the use of supplemental oxygen. The result can be ROP.
Currently all babies born at less than 1500g or less than 30 weeks gestation receive a thorough ophthalmology exam by an ophthalmologist at around 34 weeks adjusted age. If ROP is present and severe, the baby may undergo laser treatment in an attempt to spare some of the vision.
Tune in next time for Part VI!