Inherited retinal diseases are a group of genetic conditions that affect the light-sensitive cells and supporting tissue of the retina. They can lead to progressive visual loss starting in childhood or adulthood.
Types and patterns
Examples include retinitis pigmentosa, cone-rod dystrophies and macular dystrophies. Symptoms vary but may involve night blindness, peripheral field loss, central blurring or colour vision problems.
- Often run in families, following different inheritance patterns
- Genetic testing can help clarify the diagnosis and guide counselling
- Regular monitoring tracks progression and identifies complications such as macular oedema
- Low-vision support and assistive technology can improve daily functioning
