What is the primary cause of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)?

The primary cause of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is indeed related to the lack of oxygen in the developing retina of premature infants. ROP is a condition that primarily affects infants born prematurely, especially those with low birth weight. The retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, requires adequate oxygenation for proper vascular development.

In premature infants, especially those born before 31 weeks of gestation or weighing less than 1500 grams, the retinal blood vessels are not fully developed. When these infants experience fluctuations in oxygen levels—such as those that may occur in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)—it can trigger an abnormal response in the developing blood vessels of the retina. This response can lead to improper growth, such as excessive growth of blood vessels (neovascularization) that are fragile and can bleed, causing scarring and potential detachment of the retina.

While other listed factors, such as excessive light exposure during infancy, genetic mutations, or infections during pregnancy, may have some influence on ocular health, they are not the primary causes of ROP. The hallmark aspect of ROP involves the inadequate supply of oxygen during critical periods of retinal vascular development following premature birth. Understanding the role of