Retinitis Pigmentosa: Inherited Retina Disorder

Why is Retinitis Pigmentosa Serious?

• No early noticeable symptoms in some cases

• Progressive and irreversible vision loss

• Affects night vision first

• Can lead to tunnel vision and eventual blindness 

Early diagnosis helps manage progression and improve quality of life

Symptoms of Retinitis Pigmentosa 

Early Symptoms:

• Night blindness (difficulty seeing in low light)

• Difficulty adjusting to darkness

Progressive Symptoms:

• Loss of peripheral (side) vision

• Tunnel vision

• Sensitivity to bright light

• Reduced color vision 

Advanced Stage:

• Severe vision loss

• Difficulty recognizing faces or reading 

Symptoms usually begin in childhood or adolescence and worsen gradually

Causes of Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa is caused by genetic mutations that affect retinal cells. 

Key Causes:

• Inherited gene mutations

• Defective photoreceptor cells (rods and cones)

• Family history of retinal disorders

More than 100 different genes have been linked to RP. 

Risk Factors

• Family history of retinitis pigmentosa

• Genetic inheritance (autosomal dominant/recessive or X-linked)

• Certain syndromes (e.g., Usher syndrome)

RP is primarily a genetic condition, not lifestyle-related

Types of Retinitis Pigmentosa

1. Autosomal Dominant RP

• Milder progression

• Inherited from one parent

2. Autosomal Recessive RP

• Requires both parents to carry the gene

3. X-linked RP

• More severe

• Often affects males more significantly

When Should You See a Doctor? 

Consult an eye specialist if you notice:

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Reduced side vision

• Frequent tripping or bumping into objects

• Family history of retinal disease

Early screening is crucial for managing progression

Diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa

A comprehensive eye examination includes:

• Dilated eye exam

• Electroretinography (ERG) – measures retinal response

• Visual field test – detects peripheral vision loss

• Genetic testing – identifies gene mutation 

Treatment Options for Retinitis Pigmentosa

Currently, there is no complete cure, but treatments focus on slowing progression and improving quality of life. 

Vision Support & Rehabilitation

• Low vision aids

• Mobility training

• Assistive devices

Medical & Emerging Treatments

• Gene therapy (for specific mutations)

• Retinal implants (in selected cases)

• Clinical trials for new therapies 

Early intervention can help preserve functional vision

Retinitis Pigmentosa Treatment Cost in India

Estimated Cost Range:

• Diagnostic tests: ₹5,000 – ₹20,000

• Genetic testing: ₹10,000 – ₹50,000

• Advanced therapies: ₹50,000 – ₹3,00,000+

Book Retina Consultation & Genetic Testing

Recovery & Long-Term Management

• Lifelong condition requiring monitoring

• Vision gradually declines over time

• Early support improves independence

• Regular follow-ups are essential

Why Choose ASG Eye Hospital?

• Advanced retina diagnostics (ERG, OCT, genetic testing)

• Experienced retina specialists

• Access to latest treatment approaches

• 180+ hospitals across India

• Comprehensive low-vision rehabilitation