Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening guidelines in India recommend that the first screening should be performed in preterm neonates at:
- A 4 weeks chronological age (postnatal age)
- B 31–32 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA), or 4 weeks after birth — whichever is LATER ✓
- C 36 weeks PMA or discharge — whichever is first
- D 2 weeks chronological age in all infants <30 weeks gestation
Correct answer: B. 31–32 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA), or 4 weeks after birth — whichever is LATER
Explanation
National Neonatology Forum (NNF) India guidelines (based on AAP and ICROP) recommend first ROP examination at 31–32 weeks postmenstrual age OR 4 weeks after birth, whichever is later. This is because ROP typically develops between 31–44 weeks PMA. In India, screening criteria include birthweight ≤2000 g or gestational age ≤34 weeks, plus selective cases up to 35 weeks with risk factors.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.