Introduction

To evaluate the possibilities of spontaneous regression of changes in the retina and vitreous in active stage 1-5 retinopathy in prematurity.

Material and methods

168 premature infants with active stages 1-3 and 91 with stages 4-5 ROP, was observed by the author in years 1995-2002.

Results

Spontaneous regression of changes in the retina and vitreous was observed in 85% of children with stage 1, in 56% in stage 2 and in 25% in stage 3. In stage 3 regression occurred in 35% in stage 3 A, in 18% in 3 B and in 12% in stage 3 C. With changes in zone III regression can be expected in 95%, in zone II in 45% and in zone I in 6%. Spontaneous reattachment of the retina was observed in 27% of children with stage 4A, in 15 % with stage 4B and only in 6% in stage 5.

Conclusions

Considering the occurrence of spontaneous regression, laser therapy should be performed in every stage, if changes are observed in zone I and in every case of stage 3 B and 3 C.