What are the different types of retinitis pigmentosa?

Researchers have identified several major types of nonsyndromic retinitis pigmentosa, which are usually distinguished by their pattern of inheritance: autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or X-linked. Less commonly, retinitis pigmentosa occurs as part of syndromes that affect other organs and tissues in the body.

Is retinitis pigmentosa always inherited?

In most cases, the disorder is linked to a recessive gene, a gene that must be inherited from both parents in order to cause the disease. But dominant genes and genes on the X chromosome also have been linked to retinitis pigmentosa. In these cases, only one parent has passed the disease gene.

Is there any treatment for retinitis pigmentosa?

At this time, there is no specific treatment for retinitis pigmentosa. However, protecting your eye’s retina by using UV sunglasses may help delay the start of symptoms. A retinal prosthesis (artificial retina) has been developed for individuals with very advanced disease and severe vision loss.

Does everyone with retinitis pigmentosa go blind?

Both eyes often experience similar vision loss. It should be noted that RP is a slowly progressive disease over many years and that most patients never become completely blind.

Can eye transplant cure retinitis pigmentosa?

Preliminary research shows encouraging results with transplantation of retinal cells in patients with blindness caused by retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration, according to a new report. The new experimental technique yields improved vision in 7 of 10 patients.

At what age does retinitis pigmentosa occur?

Onset and clinical features. RP is typically diagnosed in young adulthood, but the age of onset may range from early childhood to the mid 30s to 50s. Photoreceptor degeneration has been detected as early as age of six years even in patients who remain asymptomatic until young adulthood.

Is there a cure for NARP?

There is no cure for NARP and the treatment is largely supportive including treatments for acute acidosis (e.g., sodium bicarbonate or sodium citrate), anticonvulsants, dystonia (e.g., baclofen, gabapentin), and cardiomyopathy.

Is NARP inherited?

Most individuals with NARP have a specific MT-ATP6 genetic change in 70 percent to 90 percent of their mitochondria. NARP syndrome is inherited from the mother (maternal inheritance) because only females pass mitochondrial DNA to their children.

How do you slow down retinitis pigmentosa?

Slowing Disease Progression There are two supplements that can be effective in slowing down the advancement of retinitis pigmentosa: vitamin A and lutein. Both of these supplements have long been known for their overall eye health benefits.

Can I drive with retinitis pigmentosa?

Can You Drive With Retinitis Pigmentosa? Patients in the earlier stages of RP may be able to drive with little to no problem. Partially-sighted individuals may need the help of a low vision aid, such as bioptic telescopes, to allow them to utilize the vision they have and drive safely.