An overview of retinitis pigmentosa (RP)

Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of hereditary diseases that causes the degeneration of the retina. Often called night blindness, retinitis pigmentosa may develop in a family where either one parent or both parents are affected or where there is seemingly no familial history of the disease. In other cases, RP is observed in only the males of the family.

Typically, symptoms start in childhood and early adolescents. They include decreased ability to see in dim light such as movie theaters or ball games, night blindness and bumping into or tripping over objects. There may also be loss of color vision and the inability to focus or see objects in detail. The symptoms experienced depend entirely on the type of retinitis pigmentosa.

Long-term affects of RP include so called 'tunnel vision'. This loss of peripheral vision is usually gradual, reducing the visual field to a narrow area of the eye, directly in front of the individual. In many cases, people with retinitis pigmentosa are considered 'legally blind' by the time they're 40.

In cases where retinitis pigmentosa and hearing loss or deafness occur, there is a chance of Ushers Syndrome. Ushers Syndrome is an inherited disease affecting 3-6 % of the deaf and is usually diagnosed in childhood.

While vitamin A supplements have been successful in slowing retinitis pigmentosa, there is presently no cure for the disease. Current studies, ie. retina transplants, are being looked at for future consideration.

If you suspect that you or someone you know may have retinitis pigmentosa contact a professional. Early detection may help to slow the disease and will provide information on useful resources such as vision aides and how to prepare for a life with reduced vision.

 

 

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