Retinitis Pigmentosa Symptoms and Condition Overview

Retinitis pigmentosa is a relatively rare condition that occurs in roughly one out of every 4,000 people in the United States. This genetic disorder, often known as progressive pigmentary retinopathy or rod-con dystrophy, is one of the most common hereditary progressive retinal degenerations. Retinitis pigmentosa produces many symptoms which can alter the accuracy of sight.

Retinitis pigmentosa symptoms include a decreased ability to see in low light and darkness, tunnel vision and loss of central vision. It is estimated there are currently 75,000 people in the United States with this condition.

Retinitis Pigmentosa Causes

Retinitis pigmentosa is a bilateral inherited condition; however, in some cases there may not be a family history. Retinitis pigmentosa symptoms typically do not become present until the teen years, but in some cases, it can be present at birth. Generally, the condition begins in one eye and progresses to include the other eye over a period of time. The later in life the condition is diagnosed, the less severe the condition will be. It generally progresses slower when it develops later in life.

There are numerous forms of retinitis pigmentosa that can occur. Progressive degeneration of the retina is present in all forms of this condition. The cones and rods, known as the light receptors, degenerate as well; however, cone deterioration usually begins the further the condition has progressed. As a result, peripheral vision gradually constricts until central vision loss occurs.

Symptoms of Retinitis Pigmentosa

The first noticeable symptom of retinitis pigmentosa involves rod degeneration, which makes it increasingly difficult for a person to see at night. This then progresses to peripheral vision and then progresses to tunnel vision. A small area of central vision is usually maintained for a period of time until night blindness occurs. In most cases, complete blindness will result. The age of progression, which includes legal blindness, can range from early childhood to middle-age.

Retinitis pigmentosa is often associated with other conditions as well. Conditions associated with retinitis pigmentosa include deafness, kidney disease, and obesity. It is not uncommon for people with retinitis pigmentosa to have metabolic disorders and complications with the central nervous system. Chromosomal abnormalities are common with this condition as well.

Currently, there is no cure for retinitis pigmentosa; however, researches are currently working to cure the condition, if not slow the progression. Cataracts occurs in almost all cases of people with this condition. A surgical removal of the cataracts is often conducted. When this surgery is performed, it is likely there is an implantation of an intraocular lens. Even with an intraocular lens implantation, retinal function will not improve. Ultimately, blindness occurs from loss of retinal function. With low-vision rehabilitation, symptoms of retinitis pigmentosa can be coped with until complete blindness eventually occurs.

References:

“Retinitis Pigmentosa” MedlinePlus

“Retinitis Pigmentosa” WebMD