Definition of Retinitis Pigmentosa essays

Definition of Retinitis Pigmentosa essays Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is defined as a hereditary, progressive degeneration of the neuroepithelium of the retina characterized by night blindness and progressive contraction of the visual field. RP refers to a group of hereditary disorders that affect the retina's ability to respond to light. It primarily affects rod cells, or the photoreceptors responsible for night vision and seeing in dim light. Rod cells also account for peripheral vision. Cone cells can also be affected as the disease progresses. Cone cells are responsible for color vision and seeing RP is a relatively rare condition. It affects an estimated fifty thousand to one hundred thousand individuals in the United States. Worldwide, RP is estimated to affect 1.5 million people. The incidence of Ocular signs start with the breakdown of rod cells. Rods are present within the outside macula, or center of the retina. The peripheral retina is predominately composed of rod cells. Symptoms of RP usually manifest between the ages of 10 and 30. First, night vision decreases along with the ability to adjust to dim lighting. When the rod cells and outer cone cells are afflicted, the subsequent loss of peripheral sight leads to tunnel vision. Rate of progression for RP varies by individual patient and There is no treatment for RP. With proper care and diet, the progression of the disease can be slowed or halted. Researchers are investigating modes of therapy and treatment to possibly reverse the degeneration and restore patients' sight. How Retinitis Pigmentosa is diagnosed. Doctors use a standard array of tests when a patient is displaying symptoms of Retinitis Pigmentosa.[iii] These tests are used to determine loss of vision and to track the progression of the condition. An electroretinagram (ERG) measures the response of the retina to a light stimulus. Electrodes are placed be...