Management of Retinopathy of Prematurity in the United Arab Emirates: A Consensus Statement From the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of preventable childhood blindness worldwide and affects a substantial proportion of very preterm or very-low-birth-weight infants. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), hospital-based cohorts report a notable incidence of ROP among preterm infants, underscoring the need for standardized protocols. This Nominal Group Technique (NGT)-based national expert consensus aims to provide unified guidance for early detection, effective management, and improved outcomes for infants at risk of ROP in the UAE. A nationally representative panel of UAE-based consultant ophthalmologists, with neonatologists as non-voting advisors, developed recommendations for the International Classification of Retinopathy of Prematurity, Third Edition (ICROP-III) classification, screening, and management. Key management strategies include timely laser photocoagulation for treatment-requiring ROP, where feasible, and intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy as a preferred or initial option in posterior disease and aggressive ROP (A-ROP), with prolonged surveillance for reactivation. Unmet needs include system-level gaps (standardized documentation, integrated tracking, and follow-up pathways) and educational gaps, particularly neonatologist and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) staff engagement in prevention and long-term follow-up.
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