You may have heard of common eye diseases, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. But there are other eye conditions, which are much less common that can occur. February 28th is Rare Disease Day, which puts the spotlight on uncommon conditions, including eye diseases. The blog below takes a look at six rare eye diseases, their causes, and treatments. |
Retinitis pigmentosa
- Trouble seeing at night
- Loss of side vision
- Loss of color vision
Currently, there is no cure for retinitis pigmentosa. Treatment usually involves low vision tools and rehabilitation to cope with vision loss.
Stargardt disease
Stargardt disease is a genetic condition that involves progressive damage to the macula in the retina. Symptoms tend to start in childhood or adolescence. Over time, the macula degenerates, which leads to a decrease in central vision. According to the National Eye Institute, about one in 10,000 people have Stargardt.
Symptoms include:
- Color blindness
- Sensitivity to light
- Gradual vision loss
Currently, there is no treatment for Stargardt disease, but eye doctors recommend people with Stargardt avoid smoking, bright sunlight, and high doses of vitamin A since it may speed vision loss.
Research and studies are ongoing to develop gene therapies and other treatments that hopefully in the future can successfully treat the disease.
Coloboma
In some cases, additional genetic conditions may also occur along with coloboma. Treatment for the condition may include surgery to repair missing tissue and protect vision.
Retinoblastoma
Retinoblastoma may develop in one or both eyes. It can spread to other parts of the eye and lead to vision loss. It is also possible to spread to other parts of the body.
Symptoms of retinoblastoma include
- Eyes that look in different directions
- Eye redness
- Eye swelling
The earlier retinoblastoma is diagnosed, the better the prognosis and prevention of vision loss. Treatment includes surgery, laser therapy, and chemotherapy.
Neuromyelitis optica
Symptoms of neuromyelitis optica include:
- Vision loss in one or both eyes
- Painful muscle spasms
- Weakness in the arms and legs
Treatment often includes immune-suppressing medications and steroids.
Charles Bonnet syndrome
Hallucinations associated with Charles Bonnet syndrome include:
- Images of insects, animals, or people
- Repeated images of dots
- Images of landscapes
There is currently no cure for Charles Bonnet syndrome. Doctors can teach people with the condition coping techniques. For example, if hallucinations are more frequent in dim lighting, going into a brightly lit room may help.
Many rare eye diseases are genetic. Fortunately, the above eye conditions are uncommon. If you have any questions about rare eye diseases or any vision issues, we are happy to help. Also, if you would like to ask about whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.