Late Complications of Retinopathy of Prematurity

Most infants with mild retinopathy of prematurity (Stages 1 to mild 3) that spontaneously resolves itself will have no remaining scar tissue.  However, some infants who undergo regression may still suffer further complications later in life.  These later complications include:

Strabismus and Amblyopia

Strabismus (crossed eyes) and amblyopia (lazy vision in one eye) occur more frequently in infants with even the mildest stages of regressed ROP compared with premature infants who do not develop ROP.  Eye muscle surgery (for strabismus) and patching (for amblyopia) are often necessary.

Myopia

Myopia (near-sightedness) can occur with the mildest forms of regressed ROP.  The nearsightedness is usually more severe when a greater amount of scar tissue remains from regressed ROP.  Myopia is correctable with glasses.

Glaucoma

Different forms of glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) may develop in eyes that have regressed or treated ROP.  Glaucoma may cause pain and does damage vision.  Laser, or other types of surgery, are sometimes necessary to help the eye drain off the build-up of the watery fluid (aqueous humor) that bathes the front of the eye and causes the increased pressure.

Late-onset Retinal Detachment

Late Retinal Detachment may rarely occur in the mid-teens or early adulthood as a result of traction from scar tissue as the eye grows or as the vitreous gel shrinks, pulling holes in the retina.  Surgery is usually necessary for repair.

Any person who experienced retinopathy of prematurity should therefore see a retina specialist and/or a pediatric ophthalmologist at least once a year during childhood and early adult years.