Fundus fluorescein angiography in the screening for and management of retinopathy of prematurity.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the characteristics of fundus fluorescein angiography in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and to explore the possible benefits of fundus fluorescein angiography over conventional indirect ophthalmoscopy in the screening for and management of ROP.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Beginning in January 2003, 23 consecutive patients were recruited for a nonrandomized, investigational trial. Fifty-one sessions of fundus fluorescein angiography were performed as part of ROP screening.

RESULTS

Fundus fluorescein angiography caused no adverse effect. Clear angiograms were easily obtained. There was delayed arm-to-eye fluorescein transit. Leakage of fluorescein was observed in all stage 2 and stage 3 ROP. The leakage resolved soon after treatment. Arteriovenous tufts were found far posterior to the ROP ridge and were a feature of severe ROP.

CONCLUSIONS

Some vascular pathology observed on angiograms cannot be seen on indirect ophthalmoscopy. There was delayed arm-to-eye transit and fluorescein transit within the eyes. Fundus fluorescein angiography allows more objective assessment of disease stage and zone. Regression of ROP is clearly observed on fundus fluorescein angiography.