Alström Syndrome reaches into several organ systems, but for many families it’s the eyes that raise the first alarm, sometimes years before its other features come to light. It helps to contrast it with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome: BBS is a rod-first condition, whereas Alström typically runs the opposite way, showing up as a cone-rod dystrophy in which central vision and colour perception are among the earliest casualties.
For families making the trip from Rwanda, we approach Alström Syndrome as a condition that affects the whole body, staying in touch with whichever local specialists are already handling its other systemic aspects, while our own work concentrates on the cone-rod pattern that sets its eye involvement apart from other inherited dystrophies.
10+
years Experience
years Experience
5000+
Patients treated
Patients treated
100+
Countries served
Countries served
NABH
Guided facility
Guided facility
Ocular Symptoms
Marked sensitivity to light tends to be one of the earliest things families pick up on, alongside the involuntary, rhythmic eye movements called nystagmus, and a decline touching both central and side vision that typically begins in infancy — considerably earlier than in most inherited retinal conditions. With central vision affected relatively early, everyday tasks involving fine detail or telling colours apart often become noticeably harder alongside the broader vision loss.
Underlying Causes
Mutations in the ALMS1 gene are behind Alström Syndrome, passed down through an autosomal recessive pattern. ALMS1 supports cilia function in tissues right across the body, and the retina, which depends heavily on that function to work properly, is usually one of the earliest and most reliably affected.
Diagnosis for Rwandan Patients
We assess the retina through electroretinography, OCT imaging, and visual field testing, watching closely for whether cone involvement shows up on the ERG ahead of, or together with, rod involvement — that specific sequence is what marks this out as a cone-rod, rather than rod-cone, process. Confirming an ALMS1 mutation through genetic testing backs up the diagnosis and helps rule out other syndromic dystrophies that can look alike in their early stages.
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
Since visual symptoms in Alström Syndrome tend to show up so early, our retinal plan prioritises getting eligible patients assessed for stem cell therapy without delay, paired with low-vision approaches suited to young children, all kept in step with whatever the family already has arranged for managing the syndrome’s other systemic effects.
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 is my child’s central vision going before what I’ve read about in other retinal diseases?
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That’s typical of Alström Syndrome — it usually follows a cone-rod pattern, meaning central and colour vision are hit relatively early, unlike the rod-first course more typical of classic RP.”
What actually distinguishes Alström Syndrome from Bardet-Biedl Syndrome?
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Different genes cause them, though they do share some systemic features. The retinal pattern is what really tells them apart — Alström affects central vision earlier through a cone-rod process, while Bardet-Biedl follows the more familiar rod-first pattern seen in typical RP. Genetic testing confirms which one is present.”
With so many organs potentially involved, what else should we keep an eye on?
“Alström Syndrome can touch hearing, heart function, and metabolic health, so it’s worth continuing to coordinate with whoever in Rwanda is already managing those areas, alongside the retinal care we provide.”
Is there a ‘too young’ when it comes to assessing a child for Alström Syndrome?
” No — given how early visual symptoms tend to show up, an early baseline assessment is genuinely useful, giving us a clear point of reference for tracking any future change.
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