Intravitreal Ranibizumab for Aggressive Posterior Retinopathy of Prematurity: A Prospective Interventional Case Series

Overview

Aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (AP-ROP) is a severe form of retinopathy of prematurity that can progress rapidly and lead to retinal detachment and permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Although laser photocoagulation has traditionally been the standard treatment, intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medications such as ranibizumab have emerged as an alternative treatment because they may preserve the developing peripheral retina. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of intravitreal ranibizumab in premature infants with AP-ROP. The study assessed the initial response to treatment, the frequency and timing of disease reactivation, the need for additional injections, retinal vascularization during follow-up, and treatment-related complications. The information obtained from this study is intended to improve understanding of the role of ranibizumab in the management of AP-ROP and to guide follow-up strategies for infants receiving anti-VEGF therapy.

\*\*Detailed Description\*\* Aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (AP-ROP) is a rapidly progressive and vision-threatening subtype of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) characterized by prominent plus disease, posterior retinal involvement, and rapid progression to retinal detachment if left untreated. Although laser photocoagulation has long been considered the standard treatment for severe ROP, its application in AP-ROP may be technically challenging because of the posterior location of the disease and is associated with permanent ablation of the peripheral retina, high myopia, and visual field constriction. Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy has emerged as an alternative treatment that promotes rapid regression of retinal neovascularization while preserving peripheral retinal tissue. Ranibizumab is characterized by a shorter systemic and intravitreal half-life than other anti-VEGF agents, which may reduce systemic VEGF suppression but may also be associated with a higher risk of disease reactivation, necessitating prolonged surveillance after treatment. This prospective interventional study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravitreal ranibizumab as primary treatment for AP-ROP. The study aimed to assess the rate and timing of disease regression and reactivation, the need for additional intravitreal injections, retinal vascularization during follow-up, and anatomical outcomes. The study also sought to characterize the morphological patterns of disease reactivation and evaluate treatment-related ocular and systemic complications. The findings are intended to contribute to the growing body of evidence regarding anti-VEGF therapy for AP-ROP and to provide additional data on long-term disease behavior following ranibizumab treatment in premature infants.