Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) was first described in 1942 by Dr. Theodore Terry as "retrolental fibroplasia," a condition characterized by a fibrous membrane behind the lens in premature infants.
1 people with Retinopathy Of Prematurity have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
What is the history of Retinopathy Of Prematurity?
History of Retinopathy Of Prematurity: when and how it was discovered, and the milestones in research since, medically reviewed.
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) was first described in 1942 by Dr. Theodore Terry as "retrolental fibroplasia," a condition characterized by a fibrous membrane behind the lens in premature infants. Since its discovery, medical understanding of Retinopathy of Prematurity has shifted from a mysterious epidemic linked to oxygen therapy in the 1940s to a sophisticated understanding of vascular development, enabling modern screening and treatment protocols that preserve vision for thousands of infants annually.
When and how was Retinopathy of Prematurity first described?
In 1942, Dr. Theodore Terry, an ophthalmologist in Boston, identified a unique, blinding condition in premature infants, which he termed "retrolental fibroplasia." Initially, the cause of Retinopathy of Prematurity remained unknown, leading to widespread concern as the incidence spiked in the 1940s alongside the increased use of incubators in neonatal care.
How did oxygen use influence the history of Retinopathy of Prematurity?
By the early 1950s, researchers discovered that the high, unregulated supplemental oxygen concentrations used in early neonatal intensive care units were a primary trigger for Retinopathy of Prematurity. This realization led to strict oxygen management protocols, which significantly reduced the prevalence of the condition, though it inadvertently led to higher mortality rates in extremely low birth weight infants due to respiratory distress.
What are the major milestones in the treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity?
The management of Retinopathy of Prematurity has evolved through several key clinical breakthroughs:
- 1950s: Identifying the link between oxygen toxicity and retinal vessel development.
- 1980s: The introduction of cryotherapy to ablate the peripheral avascular retina.
- 1990s: The transition to laser photocoagulation as the gold standard for treatment.
- 2010s-Present: The adoption of anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections, which offer a less invasive alternative to surgery.
How has modern technology changed the landscape for patients?
Today, Retinopathy of Prematurity management relies on advanced digital retinal imaging and tele-ophthalmology, allowing specialists to monitor infants remotely. Within the DiseaseMaps community, 15 people with Retinopathy of Prematurity have shared their experiences, illustrating the shift toward patient-centered advocacy and improved long-term follow-up care for those affected by this vascular disorder.
Next steps
- Consult with a pediatric ophthalmologist specializing in retinal diseases for routine monitoring.
- Join specialized support groups to connect with others who have lived experience with Retinopathy of Prematurity.
- Review updated screening guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics to ensure standardized care.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)
- Orphanet: Retinopathy of Prematurity
- National Eye Institute (NEI) - Retinopathy of Prematurity Facts
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) - ROP Guidelines
The First ROP
In 1942, Terry described the first infant who had grey, blood vessel-covered membranes behind the pupil. As more cases were described, the name retrolental fibroplasia (RLF) was coined (Fig. 1⇓ ). Distressingly, it became common around the world in special units for preterm infants. Pathologic specimens were rare (Fig. 2⇓ ) , but serial examinations of preterm infants following birth revealed that infants were not born with RLF; they developed it after birth. By the end of the 1940s, many innovations in the new preterm infant nurseries had been implicated, some were exonerated, and it was time to examine the role of oxygen.
Posted Jun 10, 2017 by Josie 2150
