Retinitis pigmentosa is a rare hereditary
condition (some sources say "group of conditions") characterised
by progressive degeneration of the retina
of the eye
due to malfunctioning of the retinal pigment
epithelium.
Retinitis pigmentosa may also be described as a form
of progressive retinal dystrophy.
The symptoms / effects of retinitis pigmentosa
:
- may begin with night
blindness in childhood,
- then progress to reducing peripheral vision (that is causing tunnel
vision),
- and eventually to total loss of vision (blindness).
The above reflects the typical progression of retinitis pigmentosa.
However, the speed and extent of progression of retinitis pigmentosa
can vary considerably from person to person. In the most extreme - and
very rare - cases blindness may occur in childhood but others affected
may never lose their sight completely (even assuming a normal lifespan).
Treatment:
Although there is no approved medical cure for retinitis pigmentosa,
or medical treatments known to halt the visual degeneration that results
from it, good support and visual aids can make it easier for those affected
to cope with retinitis pigmentosa.
More about Ophthalmology: This section includes short definitions
of many diseases, disorders, and conditions of the eyes and visual system.
For definitions of other terms in this category, choose from the list
to the left (but note that this is not a complete/exhaustive list).
Other related pages include the diagram
of the eye, and definitions
of parts of the eye, a description
of the human retina, and definitions
of parts of the retina, and the section of short definitions
of clinical and surgical procedures re. eyes and human visual system.
For further information see also our section of Books
about Ophthalmology. |
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This Section
is about
Diseases
and Disorders of the Eyes and Visual System.
To read about other diseases, disorders, or conditions of the eye and
human visual system, use the links on the left-side of this page.
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