Timing of Stage 2 ROP May Help Identify High-Risk Eyes

Clinical Report: Timing of Stage 2 ROP May Help Identify High-Risk Eyes

Overview

A study presented at the Retina Society found that an earlier diagnosis of stage 2 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is linked to higher treatment rates and a greater proportion of zone I disease.

Background

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of visual impairment in premature infants. Current treatment decisions primarily consider stage, zone, and plus disease, but the role of postmenstrual age (PMA) at diagnosis is not fully integrated into treatment criteria.

Data Highlights

PMA Group	Treatment Rate
31 to <34 weeks	48.9%
34 to <38 weeks	44.7%
≥38 weeks	29.7%

Key Findings

43.6% of eyes diagnosed with stage 2 ROP required treatment.
Earlier diagnosis at <34 weeks PMA was associated with higher treatment rates.
Median PMA at first treatment was significantly lower in the earliest stage 2 group (35.4 weeks) compared to later groups.
66% of eyes with type 2 ROP received treatment before meeting type 1 ROP criteria.
Diagnosis of stage 2 ROP at an earlier PMA correlated with a greater proportion of zone I disease.

Clinical Implications

The findings highlight the association between earlier diagnosis and treatment rates.

Conclusion

The study raises questions about the role of timing in the management of ROP.