Retinitis Pigmentosa
Also known as RP, Rod-Cone Dystrophy, Inherited Retinal Dystrophy, Tunnel Vision Disease, Pigmentary Retinopathy
Bottom Line
Retinitis pigmentosa is an inherited retina disease. It often starts with night blindness, then slowly narrows side vision.
Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited retinal dystrophies. It damages light-sensing cells, often starting with rod cells that help night and side vision 1.
The first symptom is often trouble seeing in the dark. Over years, side vision can narrow into tunnel vision.
Most forms do not have a cure today. Genetic testing, low-vision care, and gene-specific trials can still change care plans 2.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually combines several tests:
- Dilated retina exam to look for pigment changes and vessel narrowing.
- Visual field testing to measure side vision.
- Electroretinography to measure retina electrical response.
- Optical coherence tomography to check the macula.
- Genetic testing to look for the cause and trial options.
Genetic results can guide family counseling and gene-specific treatment choices 2.
Treatment and Support
Most forms of retinitis pigmentosa do not have a treatment that stops the disease today. Care focuses on protecting useful vision and finding gene-specific options.
- Low-vision care can help with lighting, reading, mobility, and school or work needs.
- Genetic counseling helps explain inheritance and family risk.
- Gene therapy exists for some retinal dystrophy caused by two RPE65 gene changes 3.
- Clinical trials may be available for selected genes or disease stages.
Safety and Daily Life
People with night and side vision loss may need changes at home and outside:
- Add motion lights and remove trip hazards.
- Use reflective tape on stairs.
- Ask about orientation and mobility training.
- Check driving rules before driving at night.
- Wear sunglasses if bright light causes glare.
Sudden floaters, flashes, a curtain, or sudden vision loss is not typical for slow inherited disease. Seek emergency care for those symptoms.
Common Questions About Retinitis Pigmentosa
Next Steps
- 1Book a retina exam if night vision or side vision is getting worse.
- 2Ask whether visual field testing and electroretinography are needed.
- 3Ask about genetic testing and genetic counseling.
- 4Set up low-vision support for school, work, driving, and home safety.
- 5Go to the emergency room for sudden vision loss, a curtain, or many new floaters.
Find specialists for Retinitis Pigmentosa
Board-certified ophthalmologists who treat Retinitis Pigmentosa.
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