Stargardt disease is an inherited macular dystrophy that typically causes gradual central vision loss in childhood or early adulthood. Peripheral vision is usually preserved for many years.
Early Symptoms
Initial signs include difficulty reading, needing brighter light, and problems recognising faces. Patients may notice grey or blurred patches in the centre of vision and reduced colour discrimination.
- Often bilateral and roughly symmetrical
- Night vision is relatively preserved compared with some other retinal dystrophies
- Fundus examination can show yellowish flecks and macular atrophy
- Visual acuity decline may be variable between individuals
Progression
Over time, central atrophy enlarges and visual acuity worsens, sometimes reaching legal blindness. However, side vision and orientation in familiar environments are often maintained.
- Rate of progression depends on specific genetic mutations
- There is currently no widely available cure, but clinical trials are ongoing
- Low‑vision aids, lighting optimisation, and support services help maintain independence
- Patients are usually advised to avoid smoking and excessive light exposure
