Retinitis Pigmentosa: A progressive eye disorder causing night blindness and loss of peripheral vision.

What is the Retinitis Pigmentosa ?

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited eye diseases that cause the degeneration of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This degeneration leads to night blindness and eventually loss of peripheral vision.

What are the symptom of Retinitis Pigmentosa?

·  Night blindness: Difficulty seeing in low light conditions

·  Tunnel vision: Loss of peripheral vision, leading to a narrow field of vision

·  Light sensitivity: Difficulty tolerating bright light

·  Loss of color vision

·  Eye floaters or flashes of light

Who can suffer from Retinitis Pigmentosa?

Retinitis pigmentosa can affect people of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in young adults. It is often inherited, but in some cases, it can be caused by other factors such as infections or medications.

What are the type of Retinitis Pigmentosa ?

There are several types of retinitis pigmentosa, each with its own characteristics and rate of progression. Some of the most common types include:

• Simple retinitis pigmentosa: This is the most common type and is characterized by a gradual loss of peripheral vision.
• Pigmentary retinopathy: This type is associated with the accumulation of pigment in the retina.
• X-linked retinitis pigmentosa: This type is inherited on the X chromosome and primarily affects males.

Which diagnostic are available for the Retinitis Pigmentosa ?

·  Eye exam: A comprehensive eye exam can help detect the early signs of retinitis pigmentosa.

·  Visual field test: This test measures the extent of peripheral vision loss.

·  Electroretinogram (ERG): This test measures the electrical activity of the retina.

·  Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This imaging test can help visualize the structure of the retina.

·  Genetic testing: Genetic testing can help identify the specific gene mutation causing retinitis pigmentosa.

What are the treatment of the Retinitis Pigmentosa ?

Currently, there is no cure for retinitis pigmentosa. However, treatments may help slow the progression of the disease or improve vision. These may include:

• Vitamin A supplements: Vitamin A supplements can help slow the progression of some types of retinitis pigmentosa.
• Gene therapy: This experimental treatment involves replacing the defective gene that causes retinitis pigmentosa.
• Low vision aids: Assistive devices such as magnifying glasses, talking books, and braille can help people with low vision.

Which diet should I take ,if any ?

While there is no specific diet recommended for retinitis pigmentosa, a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support overall eye health.

Which speciality of the doctor will Retinitis Pigmentosa?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye care and can diagnose and treat retinitis pigmentosa.

In Retinitis Pigmentosa completely curable ?

Currently, there is no cure for retinitis pigmentosa. However, research is ongoing to develop new treatments that may slow the progression of the disease or improve vision.