Retinitis Pigmentosa

Ask an Eye M.D. Answer Archive

Question:
I have been diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa. How often should I get an eye exam?

Answer:
The natural history of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is quite variable, but the development of visual loss typically takes years to decades to occur. Usually, peripheral vision and night vision are affected before central (reading) vision. Although there is no definitive therapy or cure for RP, exciting research is underway involving artificial vision, stem cells, gene therapy and neuroprotection. People with RP should be seen on a regular basis by an ophthalmologist who is experienced in the many varieties and genetics of RP. How frequently depends on the type and progression of RP and the age of onset, but a yearly examination is reasonable for most patients.

Answered by: George Williams, MD

Categories: Eye Diseases, Eye Surgery

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