The last Sunday of September is World Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) Day, a disease of genetic origin that affects the retina and can cause night blindness, progressive loss of visual acuity and reduction of visual fields. Dr. Alvaro Rivera, ophthalmologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, explains that RP is characterized by making it difficult to see in the dark and causing a progressive loss of peripheral vision, which can lead to tunnel vision or low vision.

At what age do the first symptoms of Retinitis Pigmentosa usually appear?
The first symptoms of the condition may appear in childhood or adolescence; however, they are often not detected until the pathology is advanced and begins to limit the patient’s daily activities. Symptoms vary from person to person, so the rate of vision loss depends on the type of gene affected in everyone.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made by electroretinogram and optical coherence tomography, which reveal atrophy of the photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium. In general, the disease is not curable, except in some cases caused by specific genetic variants. Currently, several research studies are underway on treatments to improve the quality of life of those suffering from this disease.

What are the most common complications of Retinitis Pigmentosa?

The most frequent complications are cataracts, which can be operated on, and macular edema, which is usually treated with topical or systemic medications.

Our specialist recommends:

• Every person diagnosed with RP should have annual check-ups with their ophthalmologist to monitor possible complications associated with the disease. In addition, it is advisable to attend genetic counseling to know the probabilities of transmitting the condition to their descendants.
• It is recommended that patients receive psychological support to manage the emotional problems caused by vision loss. They should also receive counseling to develop skills that will enable them to adapt to their disability and maintain their autonomy.
• People with a family history of RP should have regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist for early diagnosis. It is also important to protect the eyes from ultraviolet rays, practice regular physical activity and have adequate stress management.

Dr. Álvaro Rivera
Ophthalmologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma