Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a group of hereditary eye disorders which affect the retina which is the light sensitive tissue lining at the back of the eye.

It is now known that there are many different inherited defects causing RP and in all these conditions the ability of the retina to respond to light is affected. The problem can be in many parts of the retina such as the rod or cone cells, or in the connections between the cells of the retina.

The most common symptom of RP is difficulty in seeing in poor light, for example outdoors at dusk, or in a dimly lit room. Secondly the visual field is reduced so that vision is lost from the sides, or from above and below resulting possibly in tunnel vision and indicates that the rod cells, and some of the outer cone cells, have been affected first.

The loss of vision may be caused by the RP itself or by associated changes in the macula and cataract development. 25% of patients maintain good visual acuity and are able to read throughout their working life albeit with a very small, 2-3 degree central field. Under the age of 20 years only a few patients will have poor distance vision of 6/60 or worse. However, by the age of 50 years an appreciable number will be affected to that degree. It is unusual for people with RP to become totally blind as most retain some useful vision well into old age.

Contact us now on 023 9258 3751 to arrange your next appointment!