Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)

Retinitis pigmentosa
Please note that the links contained on this search results page may take you to sites outside of the NIH. (See Disclaimer under Site Policies for details.)


Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the name given to a group of inherited eye diseases that affect the light-sensitive part of the eye (retina). RP causes the breakdown cells in the retina that detect light and help us see. As these cells breakdown and die, people with RP lose their vision. The first sign of RP is typically night blindness. As the condition progresses, affected individuals usually lose their peripheral vision, which is called tunnel vision. There are many different genetic causes of RP. Sometimes RP occurs by itself (isolated RP), and other times it occurs with additional signs and symptoms (syndromic RP). There is no cure for RP, however, there are a few treatment options to slow down the progression of the disease. These options include light avoidance, use of low-vision aids, and vitamin A supplementation.[1]

References
  1. Learning About Retinitis Pigmentosa. National Human Genome Research Institute Web site. May 28, 2008 Available at: http://test.gardsecure.lmbps.com/home/asp/redir_login.asp. Accessed December 1, 2008.

For more information about Retinitis pigmentosa click on the boxes below:
Q&A More
Information
Support
Groups
Research &
Clinical Trials
Services More Search
Tools

Questions & Answers (Found: 1 Resources)
A list of questions from the public on rare and/or genetic diseases that have been answered by the Genetic and Rare Disease Information Center. Click on each question to find the answer.

   Click arrows to expand or collapse a Resource Section.
   Show All Resources   Hide All Resources




Note: If you need help accessing information in different file formats such as PDF, MP3, see Viewers, Players, and Plug-ins.