Alström Syndrome is a rare condition affecting multiple organ systems, and vision loss is usually one of the first things families notice — often well before other features of the syndrome become apparent. Where Bardet-Biedl Syndrome typically follows a rod-cone pattern, Alström Syndrome usually runs the opposite way, producing a cone-rod dystrophy in which central and colour vision are affected relatively early.
For families coming from Tanzania, our evaluation acknowledges from the start that this is a whole-body condition — we coordinate with whatever local care is already managing the syndrome’s other systemic features, while focusing the retinal work-up specifically on the cone-rod pattern that sets Alström Syndrome 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
Families often notice pronounced light sensitivity early on, along with involuntary rhythmic eye movements known as nystagmus, and a progressive decline in both central and peripheral vision that typically begins in infancy or the very first years of life — earlier than most other inherited retinal dystrophies. Because central vision is hit relatively early, trouble with fine detailed tasks and colour discrimination often comes up alongside the broader loss of vision.
Underlying Causes
The condition results from mutations in the ALMS1 gene, inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. ALMS1 plays a role in how cilia function across several organ systems, and since the retina depends heavily on that function, it tends to be one of the earliest and most consistently affected tissues.
Diagnosis for Tanzanian Patients
Our retinal work-up includes electroretinography, OCT imaging, and visual field testing, with particular attention to whether cone involvement on the ERG precedes or matches rod involvement — that specific pattern is what confirms a cone-rod, rather than rod-cone, classification. Genetic confirmation of ALMS1 mutations supports the diagnosis and helps distinguish Alström Syndrome from other syndromic and non-syndromic dystrophies that can look similar early on.
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 visual symptoms tend to appear so early in Alström Syndrome, the retinal care plan places real emphasis on prompt evaluation for stem cell therapy in eligible patients, paired with early low-vision strategies suited to a young child, all coordinated alongside the family’s existing care for the syndrome’s other systemic features.
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 declining earlier than what I’ve read about other retinal conditions?
“That’s a pattern specific to Alström Syndrome — it typically runs a cone-rod course, meaning central and colour vision are affected relatively early, unlike the more familiar rod-first pattern seen in classic retinitis pigmentosa.”
How is Alström Syndrome different from Bardet-Biedl Syndrome?
“
They’re distinct conditions with some overlapping systemic features, but different genes are responsible and they follow different retinal patterns — Alström typically hits central vision earlier through a cone-rod pattern, while Bardet-Biedl usually follows the rod-first pattern seen in classic RP. Genetic testing tells them apart.”
Since this involves several organs, is there anything else we should be watching for?
“Alström Syndrome can affect hearing, heart function, and metabolism, so continued coordination with the relevant specialists managing those areas in Tanzania remains important alongside the retinal evaluation we provide.”
How young is too young to bring in a child suspected of having Alström Syndrome?
“There’s no age that’s too young. Given how early visual symptoms tend to show up in this condition, an early baseline assessment gives us a clear reference point for measuring any future change.”
