What Is Retinitis Pigmentosa?
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited eye conditions that slowly damage the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, the retina becomes less able to process light correctly, leading to gradual vision loss.
RP is caused by inherited genetic changes that affect the retina’s light-sensing cells. Family history is one of the biggest risk factors, though symptoms and progression can vary widely from person to person.
Many people first notice problems seeing at night or in dim lighting. As the condition progresses, side vision and central vision may also become affected.
Symptoms
Symptoms of retinitis pigmentosa often begin during childhood, the teen years, or early adulthood. The condition usually worsens gradually over time.
Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Trouble adjusting to dark spaces
- Loss of side vision
- “Tunnel vision”
- Difficulty reading or seeing details clearly
- Increased sensitivity to glare or bright light
- Frequent tripping or bumping into objects
How Is It Diagnosed?
Eye specialists diagnose retinitis pigmentosa through a detailed eye exam and vision testing. Your provider may also ask about your family history and changes in vision over time.
Testing may include:
- Visual field testing to measure side vision
- Retinal imaging and retinal examination
- Color vision testing
- Electroretinography (ERG) to evaluate retinal function
- Genetic testing in some cases
These tests help determine how the retina is functioning and how much vision has been affected.
How Is It Treated?
There is currently no cure for retinitis pigmentosa, but treatment and support can help people adapt to vision changes and maintain independence.
Management options may include:
- Regular monitoring by an eye specialist
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Low-vision rehabilitation services
- Magnifiers and assistive visual devices
- Orientation and mobility training
For some people with advanced vision loss, retinal prosthesis technology may be considered.
Because RP progresses differently in every person, ongoing care can help address changing vision needs over time.
