Retinitis Pigmentosa

Overview

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited retinal dystrophy characterized by progressive loss of photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium function. Symptoms include night blindness and progressive peripheral visual field loss that may lead to tunnel vision and eventually blindness.

Symptoms

• Night blindness
• Constricted visual field
• Vision loss
• Photophobia

Treatment

There is no cure; management is mainly supportive, including vitamin supplementation, low-vision aids, and genetic counseling.

Dietary advice

Eat foods rich in vitamin A and lutein, and stop smoking.