Alström Syndrome is a rare multi-system condition, and it’s often the loss of vision that families notice first — sometimes long before any other feature of the syndrome becomes apparent. Interestingly, it runs opposite to Bardet-Biedl Syndrome in how the retina is affected: rather than a rod-first pattern, Alström typically produces a cone-rod dystrophy, meaning central and colour vision suffer relatively early.
For Zimbabwean families, we approach this as the whole-body condition it is from the outset — coordinating with whatever local specialists are already managing the syndrome’s other systemic aspects, while our own work concentrates on the cone-rod retinal pattern that distinguishes Alström 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 light sensitivity is often an early sign, alongside nystagmus and a progressive loss of both central and peripheral vision that typically starts in infancy or the earliest years of childhood — notably earlier than most comparable inherited conditions. Because central vision is involved so soon, difficulty with detailed tasks and distinguishing colours tends to appear early too, alongside the broader visual decline.
Underlying Causes
Mutations in the ALMS1 gene, inherited recessively, are responsible. This gene supports cilia function across multiple organ systems, and given how dependent the retina is on that function, it’s typically one of the first and most consistently affected tissues in the body.
Diagnosis for Zimbabwean Patients
We carry out electroretinography, OCT imaging, and visual field testing, focusing particularly on whether cone responses on the ERG decline before or alongside rod responses — that distinction is what confirms a cone-rod, rather than rod-cone, pattern. Confirming ALMS1 mutations through genetic testing solidifies the diagnosis and helps rule out other syndromic and non-syndromic dystrophies that can look similar in the 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
Because Alström Syndrome tends to declare itself visually at such a young age, our retinal plan emphasises prompt assessment for stem cell therapy in eligible children, combined with early-stage low-vision strategies, all coordinated with 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 losing central vision earlier than what I’ve read about with other retinal conditions?
“That’s characteristic of Alström Syndrome specifically — it follows a cone-rod course, so central and colour vision are affected relatively early, unlike the rod-first pattern seen in classic retinitis pigmentosa.”
How does Alström Syndrome differ from Bardet-Biedl Syndrome?
”
They share some systemic features but are caused by different genes and follow different retinal patterns — Alström affects central vision earlier via a cone-rod pattern, while Bardet-Biedl follows the rod-first pattern seen in classic RP. Genetic testing distinguishes between them clearly.”
Given that multiple organs are involved, what else should we be monitoring?
“Alström Syndrome can involve the heart, hearing, and metabolic function, so ongoing coordination with the relevant specialists in Zimbabwe stays important alongside the retinal care we provide.”
Is there a minimum age for bringing in a child suspected of having Alström Syndrome?
“No minimum age applies. Because visual symptoms often appear so early with this condition, getting a baseline assessment done early gives us something concrete to measure future change against.”
