Current Modalities and Recent Advances in the Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disorder of preterm infants with low birth weight, that is characterized by abnormal retinal vessel development. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial in these preterm patients to prevent visual loss and blindness. Laser photocoagulation and intravitreal injection of antiangiogenic agents are the current modalities in the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity. The destruction of peripheral retina due to laser photocoagulation and the risk for systemic adverse effects of antiangiogenic antibodies are challenging issues in these patients. Consequently, new safer and more effective approaches are needed for the treatment and/or prevention of ROP. This review aimed to focus on the current modalities and recent advances in the treatment of ROP.