Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is not a single disease but a family of inherited retinal disorders united by one process: the gradual breakdown of the retina’s rod and cone photoreceptor cells. It is the most frequently diagnosed inherited retinal condition worldwide, and Somali families dealing with a recent RP diagnosis often reach out to understand what the condition actually means for day-to-day vision, and what can realistically be done about it.
Because RP typically develops slowly, the ophthalmology team places heavy emphasis on establishing exactly where a patient sits on the disease timeline before any care plan is discussed. That staging work — not a one-size-fits-all protocol — is what shapes the recommendations a Somali patient receives after travelling to India.
10+
years Experience
years Experience
5000+
Patients treated
Patients treated
100+
Countries served
Countries served
NABH
Guided facility
Guided facility
Symptoms of Retinitis Pigmentosa
The rods, which handle vision in dim light, are usually affected first, so difficulty seeing at dusk or in a poorly lit room is often the earliest complaint. As the disease advances, the visual field narrows from the outside in, producing the classic ‘tunnel vision’ pattern; a ring-shaped blind spot (ring scotoma) frequently appears partway through the disease course. Central, detail-oriented vision is typically preserved the longest, though it too can decline in later stages once the cones become involved.
Causes of Retinitis Pigmentosa
RP is genetically the most diverse eye disease known — mutations across more than 80 different genes have been linked to it, including RHO, USH2A, and RPGR. Depending on the gene involved, inheritance can follow an autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or X-linked pattern, which is why family history and pedigree mapping are an important part of counselling a Somali household with more than one affected member.
Diagnosis for Somali Patients
Confirming an RP diagnosis and mapping its progression relies on full-field electroretinography (ERG) to measure rod and cone electrical response, optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess the remaining photoreceptor layers, Goldmann visual field testing to chart the extent of peripheral loss, and fundus autofluorescence imaging to visualise the boundary between healthy and degenerating retina. Genetic testing is offered where feasible, since the responsible gene can influence both prognosis and eligibility for emerging gene-specific therapies.
Meet The Team
Our Eye Specialists
Dr. Pawan
Associate Professor, Vitreo-Retina Surgeon. 10+ Years Experience
Retinal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, and advanced retina procedures. Provides diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning for international patients.
Dr.Pallavee
Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon· 26+ yrs experience
Areas of Focus: Cataract surgery, corneal disorders, refractive procedures, and glaucoma management. Provides comprehensive eye care and surgical expertise for global patients.
Dr. Robin
Consultant Ophthalmologist & Eye Surgeon, MD, DO .16+ Years Experience
Areas of Focus: Cataract surgery, corneal disorders, refractive procedures, and glaucoma management. Provides comprehensive eye care and surgical expertise for global patients.
Treatment Approach in India
Where the evaluation supports it, regenerative stem cell therapy is offered as one component of a broader plan intended to support the retinal tissue that remains functional. This sits alongside low-vision rehabilitation strategies, guidance on lighting and mobility aids, and nutritional counselling, all coordinated so the patient returns to Somalia with a clear long-term management routine rather than a single isolated procedure.
Reviews
What Our Patients Say
DR NAAGALAKSHMI R
1 week ago
Asha Babbar
2 weeks ago
The overall experience at the RP Treatment Center was very good. The staff was supportive and caring, and we provided proper attention and guidance during treatment. The environment at the center was clean and comfortable. The doctors and staff tried to understand patients' needs and explained the treatment process well.
Overall, I am satisfied with the service and care. Highly recommended!
Overall, I am satisfied with the service and care. Highly recommended!
Harshita Kapoor
2 weeks ago
Life‑Changing Experience with RP Therapy”
After years of struggling with vision loss due to Retinitis Pigmentosa, I finally found hope here. The doctors were highly professional, explained the stem cell treatment in detail, and gave me confidence at every step. The therapy was smooth, and I’ve already noticed positive changes in my daily life. Their dedication, care, and advanced medical approach make this center truly trustworthy
After years of struggling with vision loss due to Retinitis Pigmentosa, I finally found hope here. The doctors were highly professional, explained the stem cell treatment in detail, and gave me confidence at every step. The therapy was smooth, and I’ve already noticed positive changes in my daily life. Their dedication, care, and advanced medical approach make this center truly trustworthy
Yash Chauhan
2 weeks ago
I had a really good experience at RP Treatment Centre. The doctor listened to my problem patiently and explained the treatment in a simple way. The staff was polite and the clinic was clean. I started feeling better after the treatment. Highly recommended!
pragya chauhan
2 weeks ago
Very satisfied with the service. The doctor is experienced and gives proper attention to every patient. The staff is friendly, and the overall environment is comfortable. Thank you, RP Treatment Centre, for the excellent care.
Manisha kapoor
2 weeks ago
I had been struggling with Retinitis Pigmentosa for years, and finding this center was truly life‑changing. The doctors provided a thorough medical evaluation and explained every step of the stem cell therapy process with clarity. The treatment was smooth, professional, and I noticed encouraging improvements in my vision within weeks. Their continuous follow‑up care and compassionate support made me feel confident throughout the journey. Highly recommended for anyone seeking advanced RP treatment in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every person diagnosed with RP eventually go completely blind?
“No. The rate and extent of vision loss varies enormously depending on the specific gene involved and the pattern of inheritance. Many people with RP retain some useful vision, particularly central vision, well into later life, which is why an individual evaluation matters more than the general label ‘RP’.”
If two of my children have RP, will my other children develop it too?
”
That depends on the inheritance pattern of the specific gene responsible, which genetic testing can help clarify. Our team can walk your family through what the pattern in your case suggests, though formal genetic counselling for reproductive decisions is best done in conjunction with a certified genetic counsellor.”
How is RP evaluation different from a routine Somalia eye check-up?
“A routine check-up screens for common issues like refractive error or cataract. RP evaluation requires specialised equipment — ERG and detailed visual field mapping in particular — that is not typically part of a standard local eye exam, which is one reason families travel for a dedicated assessment.”
What should I bring from Somalia for the first consultation?
“Bring any existing eye reports, a list of affected family members if known, and a description of when symptoms were first noticed and how they have changed over time. This history speeds up the diagnostic process considerably.”
