Aflibercept for previously untreated retinopathy of prematurity in children

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a condition that can occur when a baby is born prematurely, which affects blood vessels in a part of the eye called the retina. The retina is at the back of the eye. It detects light and sends messages to the brain, which allows us to see. In severe ROP, blood vessels do not develop how they should in the retina. These abnormal blood vessels grow because of a substance called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and they can later turn into damaging scar tissue. This can cause serious loss of vision or blindness if it is not diagnosed or treated early. Most babies who have ROP will have a mild form of the condition which will not require any treatment and will get better on its own. However, for babies with more advanced ROP, treatment is required. Laser therapy is the most common treatment option, however this comes with the risk of scarring and permanent vision damage. Other options can include anti-VEGF agents or surgery, however these treatment options can be limited.