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What is retinitis Pigmentosa?
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) refers to a group of related diseases which
tend to run in families and cause slow but progressive vision loss.
The retina is the tissue which lines the inside of the eye and sends
visual images to the brain. In retinitis pigmentosa there is gradual
destruction of some of the light sensing cells in the retina.
What are the symptoms of retinitis pigmentosa?
The
first symptoms usually start in young adulthood, although they may be
seen at any age. Night blindness and loss of side vision are the most
common symptoms.
People with normal vision adjust to the dark after a short period of
time and are able to distinguish shapes. People with night blindness
adjust to darkness very slowly; they often cannot function in the
dark. Loss of side, or peripheral, vision makes mobility more
difficult.
Why is it important to know about hereditary retinitis pigmentosa?
Most
forms of retinitis pigmentosa are inherited. Learning more about
heredity may help predict how the disease will progress for an
affected person.
Knowledge about heredity is also helpful in making decisions about
marriage, occupations and family planning. Genetic counselors can
help to make these important decisions.
Is
there any treatment for retinitis pigmentosa?
There
is not specific treatment for the vast majority of patients. Much
research is currently directed toward finding the hereditary causes of
RP. As hereditary defects are discovered though research, it may be
possible to develop treatment to prevent the progression of RP.
Patients with RP may develop other treatable eye diseases such as
glaucoma or cataracts. In some cases may be associated with other
problems such as hearing loss.
Low
vision devices can help affected people continue with many of the
normal activities of daily life. Two national organizations offer
support groups for people with RP.
RP Foundation Fighting Blindness: 1-800-638-2300
RP International: 1-800-344-4877
Despite visual impairments, patients can lead meaningful lives through
he wide variety of visual services that are available today. Until
there is a cure, periodic examinations by an ophthalmologist will keep
patients informed of legitimate scientific discoveries which may
develop.
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