A preterm infant born at 32 weeks gestation requires screening for retinopathy of prematurity. As per current guidelines followed in India, the first screening examination should be performed at:
- A 40 weeks postmenstrual age regardless of birth weight
- B 32 weeks postmenstrual age or 4 weeks after birth, whichever is earlier ✓
- C At birth, within the first 48 hours of life
- D 6 months of chronological age
Correct answer: B. 32 weeks postmenstrual age or 4 weeks after birth, whichever is earlier
Explanation
Indian guidelines recommend the first ROP screening at 31 to 32 weeks postmenstrual age or 4 weeks after birth, whichever is earlier, especially for infants born below 34 weeks or weighing less than 2000 g. Screening at birth is too early because severe disease cannot yet be detected, while delaying to term equivalent age risks missing aggressive posterior ROP, which progresses rapidly and can lead to irreversible blindness within weeks.
Reference: Kanski's Clinical Ophthalmology, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.