Fibroplasia

Fibroplasia: Mechanisms and consequences

Introduction

Fibroplasia is a process of connective tissue formation that typically occurs during wound healing. However, in some cases, this process can lead to abnormal growth of connective tissue and cause serious complications. One such complication is retrolental fibroplasia, which can lead to blindness. This condition is characterized by a specific growth of connective tissue directly under the lens of the eye and is often observed in premature newborn infants, especially when there is an accompanying high content of inspired oxygen. In this article we will look at the mechanisms of development of retrolental fibroplasia and its consequences.

Mechanisms of development of retrolental fibroplasia

Retrolental fibroplasia develops as a result of inadequate development of the vascular system of the eye in premature newborns. With insufficient development of the retina and choroid, the body tries to compensate for this by forming new capillaries. However, under conditions of increased concentration of inspired oxygen, which is often used to support the life of premature infants, inadequate proliferation of newly formed vessels occurs.

Increased oxygen concentrations can cause oxidative stress and damage to the endothelium (the cells lining the inner surface of blood vessels). This leads to the activation of growth factors and proliferation of connective tissue. As a result, intensive proliferation of fibroblasts and collagen formation occurs, which leads to the formation of dense fibrous tissue deposits under the lens of the eye. This complicates the lumen of blood vessels and limits the transmission of light to the retina, which can cause visual impairment and even blindness.

Consequences of retrolental fibroplasia

Retrolental fibroplasia can have serious consequences on visual function. Depending on the degree of development of fibrotic changes, various degrees of visual impairment are possible, up to complete blindness. In addition, these children may experience other vision problems, such as crossed eyes or amblyopia (lazy vision).

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis of retrolental fibroplasia is usually made through an eye examination and special diagnostic methods such as ocular examination, ocular ultrasound and angiography.

Treatment of retrolental fibroplasia may involve different approaches depending on the extent and severity of the disease. In some cases, when fibrotic changes are not yet too pronounced, a conservative approach aimed at controlling the child's environment may be sufficient. This may include reducing the concentration of inspired oxygen, regular eye examinations, and optimizing the child's nutrition and general condition.

In more severe cases, where fibrotic changes are already significant and threaten vision, surgery may be required. One such procedure is vitrectomy, which involves removing fibrous tissue from the eye cavity. After surgery, long-term observation and rehabilitation may be required to restore visual function.

Conclusion

Retrolental fibroplasia is a serious complication that can occur in premature newborns, especially when there is an accompanying increase in inspired oxygen. The process of formation of connective tissue can lead to impaired visual function and even blindness. Diagnosis and treatment of retrolental fibroplasia require a specialized medical approach and may include conservative measures and surgery. Early detection and timely treatment are important factors to prevent serious consequences of this condition and preserve visual function in children.

Fibroplasia is the formation of connective tissue in the human body. During the healing process of wounds, for example, after surgery or injury, connective fibers are formed, which help speed up the healing process and prevent possible complications.

However, in some cases, fibroplasia can lead to serious consequences and diseases. One such disease is retrolental fibroplasia, which manifests itself as a proliferation of connective tissue under the lens of the eye. This leads to blindness and other serious vision pathologies.

Retrolental fibroplasia usually occurs in premature infants who are exposed to increased oxygen levels in the air. This can lead to the development of fibroplasia and other complications.

Thus, fibroplasia is an important process in the human body, but can also lead to serious diseases and health problems. Therefore, it is important to monitor your health and consult a doctor at the first signs of illness.

Fibroplasia is a process of formation of connective tissue that usually occurs during the healing of various injuries. In medicine, fibroplasia has several names, including fibrosis and fibrosis.

One of the most well-known examples of fibroplasia is retrolental fibroplasia, which is an abnormal growth of connective tissue under the lens of the eye. This usually occurs in premature infants who are on mechanical ventilation (MV) or receiving oxygen through a mask.

Retrolental fibroplasia can lead to blindness because the connective tissue can cover the pupil and block light needed for vision. In addition, connective tissue overgrowth can lead to other serious complications such as corneal edema, cataracts, and glaucoma.

To prevent fibroplasia in premature babies, doctors recommend using special treatment methods, such as reducing the concentration of oxygen in the air or using special breathing masks. It is also important to perform regular eye examinations in ventilated infants to detect possible signs of fibroplasia early and take steps to prevent it.