Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited diseases that damage
the light-sensitive rods and cones located in the retina, the back part of our
eyes. Rods, which provide side (peripheral) and night vision are affected more
than the cones which provide color and clear central vision.
Signs of RP usually appear during childhood or adolescence. The first sign is
often night blindness followed by a slow loss of side vision. Over the years,
the disease will cause further loss of side vision. As the disease develops,
people with RP may often bump into chairs and other objects as side vision
worsens and they only see in one direction – straight ahead. They see as if they
are in a tunnel (thus the term tunnel vision).
Fortunately, most cases of retinitis pigmentosa take a long time to develop
and vision loss is gradual. It may take many years for loss of vision to be
severe.
Currently, there is no cure for RP, but there is research that indicates that
vitamin A and lutein may slow the rate at which the disease progresses. Your
doctor of optometry can give you more specific information on nutritional
supplements that may help you.
Also, there are many new low vision aids, including telescopic and magnifying
lenses, night vision scopes as well as other adaptive devices, that are
available that help people maximize the vision that they have remaining. An
optometrist, experienced in low vision rehabilitation, can provide these devices
as well as advice about other training and assistance to help people remain
independent and productive.
Since it is an inherited disease, research into genetics may one day provide
a prevention or cure for those who have RP.
