What is Retinitis Pigmentosa?

Symptoms of RP Treatment For RP

SYMPTOMS

Typical symptoms of RP are what are commonly referred to as "night blindness" and "tunnel vision". Night blindness refers to a reduced ability to see at night time, but more than that it entails a diminishing ability to see in dimly lit conditions generally, as well as in judging changes in level such as steps and gutters. Adjustments to changes in light intensity are typically slower and sensitivity to glare greater than is the case with the normal, healthy eye. All this results from the eye having fewer and fewer photoreceptor cells with which to transmit visual images to the brain.

The common pattern with RP is for photoreceptor cells to be lost progressively from the outer edges of the retina. This causes a progressive loss of peripheral vision, meaning side, upper and lower vision. It is as if the affected individual is viewing the world through a narrowing tunnel. Unlike a person with a normal field of vision, the person with tunnel vision cannot simultaneously look ahead and downwards or sideways without using a scanning technique by moving the eyes. However, the central vision of the person with RP may remain largely unaffected for a considerable number of years, enabling the individual to continue to read, watch television and perform other visually detailed tasks.

It is important to understand that with RP there is no uniform age of onset of symptoms and no uniform rate and extent of vision loss. These can vary markedly from individual to individual and are not usually able to be predicted.

TREATMENT

At present, there is no treatment to halt the progression of any retinal dystrophies. No convincing scientific evidence demonstrates any benefits for individuals with RP from the many unproven treatments that have been attempted. However scientists investigate even the most remote possibilities.

Recent scientific evidence, has determined sunlight and normal light levels worsen the symptoms, and, increase the rate of vision loss. Individuals with retinal degenerations are encouraged to protect their eyes from long exposure to bright light. In dim light, they may use their eyes to the degree possible without fear of worsening their condition.

When only one person in the family is affected, it is difficult to decide how the condition is inherited.

Many hereditary diseases may affect the retina, each with symptoms. Conditions include Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), Stargardt disease, Usher Syndrome, Best disease, Cone Rod Dystrophy and Choroideremia.

In order to determine the likelihood of your children and other members of your family being affected, you should consult your doctor or seek genetic counselling. Because retinal dystrophies usually run in families, all family members are encouraged to have a thorough eye examination.

My Shopping Cart

Secure Checkout

Colouring For The Kids

Members

Presidents Mid Year Report
2009 Retina Congress
Events Calendar
Secure Membership Application
Newsletters Eye Q News
Notices and Announcements
Office Location

Blindness Conditions

Macular Degeneration
Retinitis Pigmentosa
Research
Stargardt Disease
Usher Syndrome