Screening and treatment of retinopathy of prematurity: current status, problems and prospects in China / 中华眼底病杂志

ABSTRACT

Early detection and timely treatment hold the key to cure retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).ROP screening is carried out unevenly in China.Examination equipments and personnel experiences are the major factors to constraint ROP screening.In addition to strengthening personnel training,it is necessary to establish a standard guideline and pipeline for ROP consultation and referral. Laser photocoagulation and cryotherapy are the first options for the threshold ROP and Type 1 pre-threshold ROP.Scleral buckling or vitrectomy is needed for advanced ROP when retinal detachment occurs. The clinical efficacy of intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor monoclonal antibody) for severe ROP is encouraging,but needs further verification.Genetic interference and stem cell therapy will be the prosperous futures in the treatment of ROP.The screening and treatment of ROP in China is becoming more common and improved,but it is still a long way to go considering the huge population of China.