Stage 5 ROP is characterized by which finding?

• A. Partial retinal detachment
• B. Total retinal detachment
• C. Regression without detachment
• D. Neovascularization only in the retina

Answer: (B)

Stage 5 represents the most advanced progression of retinopathy of prematurity and is defined by a complete retinal detachment. The abnormal neovascular tissue and scarring exert traction that pulls the retina away from the underlying choroid across the entire retina, often producing a funnel-shaped configuration of the detached retina. This distinguishes it from earlier stages, where detachment is partial (stage 4) or where neovascularization exists without a total detachment. The finding of a total retinal detachment explains why Stage 5 is the correct characterization.