The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a layer of cells important for supporting photoreceptors. Changes in the RPE occur in many retinal diseases and can affect vision.
Degenerative and Age-Related Causes
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of RPE change, including drusen formation, pigment mottling, and geographic atrophy. Chronic light exposure, oxidative stress, and genetics contribute.
- RPE disturbance is central in both dry and wet AMD
- Long-standing retinal detachment can also damage the RPE
- Inherited retinal diseases may show characteristic RPE patterns
Inflammatory and Other Causes
Inflammatory conditions, previous infection, or trauma can alter RPE pigmentation and function. Some medications are also associated with RPE toxicity.
Further Information
The Blue Fin Vision® articles on dry AMD and macular degeneration disease discuss how RPE changes contribute to central vision loss.
