Which stage of ROP indicates the most serious consequence of retinal detachment?

Stage 5 ROP (Retinopathy of Prematurity) represents the most advanced severity of the disease and is characterized by total retinal detachment. In this stage, the retinal vasculature is severely altered, leading to a complete detachment of the retina from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium. This condition poses a significant risk of vision loss and is associated with the worst outcomes for the affected infant's vision.

Understanding the progression of ROP is essential. Earlier stages, such as Stage 1 and Stage 2, indicate mild to moderate disease characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth but not retinal detachment. Stage 3 involves more severe changes, with the presence of aggressive growth of blood vessels, but it is still less severe than Stage 5 since it may not result in complete detachment.

In summary, Stage 5 signifies the culmination of the disease process, where the risks of complications, including irreversible vision loss, are highest, making it the stage with the most serious consequences associated with retinal detachment.