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What Is Retinitis Pigmentosa?
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) refers to
a group of related diseases which tend to run in families and
cause slow but progressive loss of vision. The retina is the
tissue which lines the inside of the eye and sends visual images
to the brain. In retinitis pigmentosa there is gradual
destruction of some of the nervous sensors in the retina along
with abnormal pigment clumping.
What Are The Symptoms Of Retinitis
Pigmentosa?
The first symptoms usually occur in
youth or young adulthood although it may be first seen at any
age. Night blindness and loss of side vision are the most
common symptoms in retinitis pigmentosa. People with normal
vision adjust to the dark after a short period of time and are
able to distinguish forms. People with night blindness
adjust to darkness very slowly, if at all. Loss of side
vision (peripheral vision) is a hindrance to those with retinitis
pigmentosa as mobility becomes more difficult.
Why Is It Important To Know About
Heredity In Retinitis Pigmentosa?
Most forms of retinitis pigmentosa
are inherited. Different patterns of heredity are associated
with different degrees of progression and so an attempt to know
more about the family line will help predict how an affected
person might ultimately be afflicted, though variability exists
within each family. This knowledge is also helpful in making
decisions about such things as marriage, family and occupation.
Is There Any Treatment For
Retinitis Pigmentosa?
In general, there is no specific
treatment, although one rare form might benefit from proper
vitamin therapy. Much research is directed toward solving
this problem. Until there is a cure, it is important for
patients with this disease not be deceived by those who claim a
"secret cure" or "miracle drug".
Periodic examinations by an ophthalmologist are advised. The
ophthalmologist will also keep the patient informed of legitimate
scientific discoveries which may develop.
Patients with retinitis pigmentosa
may develop other treatable disease, such as glaucoma or
cataract. Low vision aids may be prescribed. In some
cases, retinitis pigmentosa may be associated with other disease
processes which might need evaluation by other medical
specialists.
Despite visual impairment, patients
with retinitis pigmentosa can live meaningful and rewarding lives
with the many rehabilitative services that are available today.
Why Are Regular Medical Eye
Examinations Important For Everyone?
Eye disease can strike at any
age. Many eye diseases do not cause symptoms until the
disease has done damage. Since most blindness is preventable
if diagnosed and treated early, regular medical examinations by an
ophthalmologist are very important. Why an
ophthalmologist? Because only an ophthalmologist (MD or
osteopath) can provide total care for your eyes: medical,
surgical and optical.
©1992 American Academy of
Ophthalmology
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