Retinopathy of prematurity and blindness twins after training negligence after discharge Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Retinopathy due to prematurity (ROP) is considered as a complication of oxygen therapy that may be leading to blindness, in case of failure to diagnose and treat in time. The aim of this study was to introduce the boy twins who turned blind due to retinopathy resulting from child prematurity and parents’ insufficient education. Case Report: A 20-year-old mother, experiencing her first pregnancy, which was of twins type, and with complaints from rupture of membranes and high blood pressure, referred to a birth center and delivered. The result of this vaginal birth was two boys that were 28 weeks old and went through ten days of oxygen therapy, due to preterm delivery, and then were discharged. Two months after the birth to twins, the mother noticed their lack of response to light and after going to the doctor, retinopathy due to prematurity was diagnosed. Babies did not respond to treatment and both turned blind. The twins’ mother considers the lack of her awareness and negligence of the care team regarding post-clearance education and lack of follow up as the reasons for the delay in her referring to the hospital. Conclusion: Prevention of precocious retinopathy requires parental education about prematurity and its complications, as well as precise follow up of preterm infants after discharge.