Retinitis Pigmentosa
Overview
Retinitis Pigmentosa is a disorder caused by the gradual degeneration of the rods and cones of the retina.
People with Retinitis Pigmentosa suffer from a gradual loss of night vision, peripheral vision and visual sharpness in both eyes.
Eventually the disorder can lead to tunnel vision, a disorder where the peripheral vision becomes dark. Eventually, total blindness can result, but most people
with Retinitis Pigmentosa retain some vision even in old age. The cause of Retinitis
Pigmentosa is not completely understood, but it is believed to be an
inherited, recessive, genetic disorder. Symptoms can show as early as the age of 10.
Prevalence
Approximately 100,000 people in America have been diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa.
Prevention/Treatment
There is no effective treatment for Retinitis Pigmentosa, but there have been some indications that consuming large amounts of Vitamin A can slow the regression.
However, because excessive amounts of Vitamin A are toxic and the vitamin has not been proven to be effective, it is not widely considered as a cure for Retinitis Pigmentosa.