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.