Retinitis Pigmentosa1
Retinitis pigmentosa is a progressive degeneration of the retina (inside back part of the eye) which affects night vision and peripheral vision.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Retinitis pigmentosa commonly runs in families. The disorder can be caused by defects in a number of different genes which have recently been identified.
The cells controlling night vision, called rods, are most likely to be affected. However, in some cases, retinal cone cells are most damaged. The hallmark of the disease is the presence of dark pigmented spots in the peripheral retina.
As the disease progresses, peripheral vision is gradually lost. The condition may eventually lead to blindness, but usually not complete blindness. Signs and symptoms often first appear in childhood, but severe visual problems do not usually develop until early adulthood.
The main risk factor is a family history of retinitis pigmentosa. It is an uncommon condition affecting about 1 in 4,000 people in the U.S.
Symptoms
- Vision decreased at night or in reduced light
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Loss of central vision (in advanced cases)
1.
Source: Medline: NIH
Medical Encyclopedia
Prevention and Alternative Treatments
Dr. Geiger's Eye Care Naturally
includes a chapter on
retinitis pigmentosa which details alternatives: researched advice on
eating properly, taking the correct nutritional supplements and adopting a suitable
lifestyle. It is MUST
reading
for anyone with a family history of retinitis pigmentosa or anyone who has the disease.
