Retinopathy of prematurity is caused by what condition immediately after birth?

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is primarily associated with excessive concentrations of oxygen during neonatal care. In premature infants, the retina is not fully developed, and fluctuations in oxygen levels can disrupt the normal growth and development of the blood vessels in the eye. Administering high concentrations of oxygen can lead to abnormal blood vessel growth, resulting in ROP.

While low oxygen levels and insufficient blood flow can contribute to various complications in premature infants, it is the high levels of oxygen that are particularly linked to the overgrowth of retinal blood vessels, leading to potential complications including vision impairment. Underdeveloped retinal cells are a characteristic of premature infants but are not the direct cause of retinopathy of prematurity. Thus, the excessive concentration of oxygen is a crucial factor in the development of this condition.