Retinitis pigmentosa describes a group of conditions that affect the retina. Retinitis Pigmentosa is a progressive condition and usually presents in childhood. However, in some cases may not appear until the 30s or 40s. In the early stages, the patient may notice that it takes longer for their eyes to adjust to poor light, such as outdoors at dusk or in a dimly lit room. Known as night blindness.
Patients will also experience a gradual reduction in their peripheral vision. Central vision may be affected first in some cases. Retinitis Pigmentosa is a genetic condition and results in the degeneration of the photoreceptor cells (light-sensitive cells) in the retina resulting in loss of vision and, in severe cases, blindness.