Imagine three retinal layers deteriorating in tandem rather than independently — the choroid, the retinal pigment epithelium, and the photoreceptors resting above them. That combination defines choroideremia, an X-linked condition that, owing to its inheritance pattern, appears almost exclusively in males; female carriers generally experience only mild changes that rarely affect vision in any meaningful way.
Patients from Nigeria often arrive after a male relative’s fundus examination revealed something a local ophthalmologist recognised as atypical for standard RP — a pattern distinctive enough to warrant genetic confirmation of choroideremia rather than a general retinal dystrophy diagnosis.
10+
years Experience
years Experience
5000+
Patients treated
Patients treated
100+
Countries served
Countries served
NABH
Guided facility
Guided facility
Ocular Symptoms
Childhood night blindness is usually the first sign to appear, well ahead of anything else. Peripheral vision then narrows steadily through adolescence and into adulthood. What sets choroideremia apart is how long central vision typically survives — frequently for decades compared with most other inherited retinal conditions — though it can eventually decline in mid-to-late adulthood once degeneration reaches the macula.
Underlying Causes
The condition results from mutations in the CHM gene on the X chromosome, which leave cells in the choroid, RPE, and photoreceptor layers deprived of the REP1 protein needed for their survival and function. Because the gene sits on the X chromosome, a carrier mother passes roughly a fifty percent chance of being affected to each son, and roughly a fifty percent chance of carrier status to each daughter.
Diagnosis for Nigerian Patients
A fundus examination in choroideremia frequently reveals a distinctive scalloped pattern as the choroid and RPE thin — combined with electroretinography and OCT imaging, that appearance usually helps distinguish it from other rod-cone dystrophies fairly early on. Genetic testing for CHM mutations provides a definitive answer and is particularly useful for confirming carrier status among female relatives.
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
Because central vision typically remains intact for such an extended period, care for choroideremia focuses heavily on protecting retinal health for as long as that window lasts. Regenerative stem cell therapy is considered for eligible patients as part of that approach, alongside close monitoring of degeneration and low-vision planning ahead of any anticipated changes to central vision.
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
Why does this condition mostly affect men?
“It comes down to the location of the CHM gene — on the X chromosome. Men have only one X chromosome, so a single faulty copy is enough to cause the condition. Women have two, and the healthy copy in carriers is usually sufficient to prevent significant vision loss, though occasional mild changes can appear.”
As a carrier, will my sons definitely be affected?
”
Not definitely — each son of a carrier mother has roughly a fifty percent chance of inheriting the faulty gene, and each daughter has roughly a fifty percent chance of becoming a carrier herself. Genetic testing can offer a more precise answer for your specific family.”
How would a specialist distinguish this from typical RP just by examining the eye?
“The scalloped pattern of atrophy affecting both the choroid and RPE together is fairly distinctive, and an experienced retina specialist can often recognise the difference from the more uniform photoreceptor loss seen in classic RP — though genetic testing ultimately confirms it.”
When is the best time to begin monitoring or discussing treatment?
“Earlier is generally better, since it preserves more options while central vision remains intact. A specialist assessment is worth seeking well before central vision symptoms appear, rather than waiting until they do.”
