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Retinitis pigmentosa, often called RP, is the name for a group of rare genetic diseases. These diseases affect the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. RP causes the cells in the retina that detect light, known as rods and cones, to slowly break down over time. This leads to a gradual loss of vision.
read more about retinitis pigmentosa (RP) ...The first symptom of RP is usually difficulty seeing at night or in dim light. This is known as night blindness. As the disease gets worse, a person will start to lose their side (peripheral) vision. This creates a feeling of looking through a narrow tunnel, which is called "tunnel vision." In the late stages, central vision used for reading can also be affected.
RP is an inherited disease, which means it is caused by a flaw in a person's genes. It is passed down through families. There are many different gene flaws that can cause RP. The disease is something a person is born with, although symptoms may not appear until later in life. It is not contagious and you cannot catch it from someone else.
Currently, there is no cure for most types of retinitis pigmentosa. Treatment is focused on helping people manage their vision and trying to slow the disease down. This can include using low vision aids like magnifiers. In some cases, a specific form of vitamin A may help, but this must be supervised by a doctor. There is a lot of active research, including gene therapy, to find future treatments.
When a doctor looks inside the eye of someone with RP, they often see a very specific pattern called "bone spicules." These are dark, clumpy deposits of pigment that look like microscopic bone structures scattered across the retina. These deposits are caused by the death of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. As the cells die, they release pigment that settles into the retina, creating this hallmark sign that helps confirm the diagnosis.
While many people with RP will become legally blind, most will keep some of their vision for their entire life. The disease progresses very slowly, and how much vision is lost varies from person to person.
The first symptoms, like trouble seeing at night, often begin in childhood or the teenage years. However, the age when symptoms start can be different for everyone.
Since it is a genetic disease, there is a chance it can be passed on. A genetic counselor can help you understand the specific risk for your family.
You should see an eye doctor if you notice you are having a hard time seeing in dark places or if you keep bumping into things as if your side vision is shrinking. If you know that someone in your family has RP, it is a good idea for you to have regular eye exams to check for any early signs.
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