Retinitis Pigmentosa

The retina is a thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue that covers the back wall of the eye.  It consists of photosensitive cells called Rods and Cones. The retina receives light and images through the lens and converts them into signals that are sent to the brain for visual recognition.

Retinitis Pigmentosa (known as RP) is a genetic condition that changes how the retina responds to light therefore making it hard to see especially in low light conditions like driving at night or being in a dim room.  Retinitis Pigmentosa can also diminish peripheral (side) vision and over time result in tunnel vision.

People with tunnel vision are more likely to bump into things as they move around because they can not see things unless they are directly in front of them.  Some people can also experience loss of central vision and develop problems with color vision. RP is a gradual, slowly degenerative condition. It is a rare condition generally estimated to affect 1 in 4000 people.  Symptoms can begin in early childhood with children expressing difficulty seeing in the dark. As the condition worsens, patients can become clumsy and trip over things as a direct effect of losing peripheral vision.  Since there are many gene mutations of RP, the progression and severity can vary greatly from person to person.

RP is diagnosed initially through a dilated eye examination with an ophthalmologist or retinal specialist. The initial examination will reveal abnormal, dark pigmented spots on the retina. Other, more precise tests to diagnose RP are an electroretingram (ERG) which measures the electrical activity or the photoreceptor cells. A Visual Field which determines the extent of peripheral vision loss and in some cases genetic testing through blood work.

Though there are many different treatments and services available for patients with RP, there is no cure. Occupational therapists, low vision specialists and clinical trials of certain doses of vitamins have in some cases helped maximize remaining vision or slow down the progression of visual loss.