August 10, 2011 - In every cell in our body, DNA is sending messages, known as messenger RNA (mRNA), which tell our cells what proteins to make. Proteins are essential building blocks that provide our cells with structure and strength, regulate and protect our bodies’ chemistry, and facilitate the transport of oxygen and other essential substances. Proteins are also essential to the health of our photoreceptors—the light-sensing cells in the retina—and the biochemical process that makes vision possible. Hence, it is critical that the messages transmitted by our DNA are translated correctly, so that the right proteins are made.

1. What are Retinal Degenerative Diseases?
2. What is Retinitis Pigmentosa?
3. What causes Retinitis Pigmentosa?
4. What are the symptoms of Retinitis Pigmentosa?
5. Can my Ophthalmologist Diagnose Retinitis Pigmentosa?
6. Are There Special Tests to Diagnose Retinitis Pigmentosa?
7. How do I Find a Doctor Familiar with Retinal Degenerations?
8. How Quickly Does Retinitis Pigmentosa Progress?
9. Can RP Lead to Total Blindness?
10. Is there a Treatment for Retinitis Pigmentosa?
11. What Are Some of the Questions I Should Ask My Eye Doctor?

Retinitis Pigmentosa - Risk Factors

Recent research findings suggest that in some forms of Retinitis Pigmentosa, prolonged, unprotected exposure to sunlight may accelerate vision loss. Therefore, The Foundation recommends that patients wear sunglasses and visors when outdoors.

• What is retinitis pigmentosa?
• What are the symptoms?
• How is RP inherited?
  
• What treatments are available?
  
• What testing is available?
  
• Are there any related diseases?
  

What is retinitis pigmentosa?

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) refers to a group of inherited diseases causing retinal degeneration. The cell-rich retina lines the back inside wall of the eye. It is responsible for capturing images from the visual field. People with RP experience a gradual decline in their vision because photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) die. Forms of RP and related diseases include Usher syndrome, Leber’s congenital amaurosis, rod-cone disease, Bardet-Biedl syndrome, and Refsum disease, among others.