Retinopathy of Prematurity

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Causes

The human eye develops rapidly between 28 and 40 weeks gestation. The blood supply to the retina begins to form at about 16 weeks gestation, starting at the optic nerve. Blood vessels grow from the optic nerve toward the edges of the retina—a process that continues until the fetus reaches term.

When a baby is born prematurely, normal blood vessel development may cease and abnormal growth may begin. Supplemental oxygen use is likely associated with development of ROP.


Signs...Read the full article