One of the most common early symptoms that retinitis pigmentosa patients experience is night blindness, which makes it difficult to adjust to darkness and see in low light conditions. Patients may also bump into objects in the dark. As the disease progresses, patients gradually lose their peripheral visual field, making it difficult to see objects to the side. In some cases, patients may also experience a loss of central vision in the later stages of the disease.
In most cases, Retinitis Pigmentosa is caused by changes in genes that control the cells in the retina. RP is usually due to genetic inheritance and can be linked to many genes in our body. It can also occur as part of other genetic conditions, such as Usher syndrome, which causes both vision and hearing loss and can lead to difficulty in balancing.
A comprehensive dilated eye examination is required in order to diagnose Retinitis Pigmentosa. Clinical tests such as visual field, electroretinography (ERG), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fundus autofluorescence imaging (AF) can also be used to diagnose RP. Genetic testing can also be done to determine the type of RP a patient has, which is important for family planning since RP is a genetic inherited disorder.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for Retinitis Pigmentosa. However, low vision aids and visual rehabilitation programs provided by low vision specialists can help RP patients improve their quality of life. Researchers are studying gene and cell therapies as potential future treatments for RP.
If you are experiencing any symptoms related to Retinitis Pigmentosa, we recommend visiting a retinal specialist at our centre. A retinal specialist will be able to determine if any diagnostic tests are necessary to rule out any abnormalities. Additionally, we offer genetic testing at our centre.
