Review of the mechanisms and therapeutic avenues for retinal and choroidal vascular dysfunctions in retinopathy of prematurity

Abstract

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a multifactorial disease and the main cause of visual impairment and blindness in premature neonates. The inner retina has been considered the primary region affected in ROP, but choroidal vascular degeneration and progressive outer retinal dysfunctions have also been observed. This review focuses on observations regarding neurovascular dysfunctions in both the inner and outer immature retina, the mechanisms and the neuronal-derived factors implicated in the development of ROP, as well potential therapeutic avenues for this disorder.

Conclusion: Alterations in the neurovascular integrity of the inner and outer retina contribute to the development of ROP.

Keywords: Angiogenesis; Choroidal degeneration; Neuron-derived factors; Retinopathy of prematurity; Visual impairment.