Choroideremia is unusual in that it involves the simultaneous breakdown of three separate retinal layers — the choroid beneath, the retinal pigment epithelium, and the photoreceptors sitting above. Its X-linked inheritance means the condition is seen almost entirely in men, while women who carry the faulty gene tend to notice only subtle changes that rarely interfere with everyday vision.
We frequently see Zimbabwean families after a local ophthalmologist has examined a male relative’s fundus and flagged something that didn’t fit the usual picture of RP, prompting a referral for genetic confirmation of choroideremia specifically.
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 generally the first clue, showing up well ahead of any other symptom. From there, peripheral vision contracts steadily through adolescence and adulthood. A notable feature of this condition is just how long central vision manages to hold on — frequently for several decades longer than seen in most other inherited retinal diseases — although it too can eventually be lost once the macula becomes involved, usually somewhere in mid-to-late adulthood.
Underlying Causes
A mutation in the CHM gene, located on the X chromosome, is responsible — it prevents cells in the choroid, RPE, and photoreceptor layers from producing enough REP1 protein to remain healthy. Because the faulty gene sits on the X chromosome, sons of a carrier mother face roughly a fifty percent chance of developing the condition, and daughters face roughly the same odds of becoming carriers themselves.
Diagnosis for Ugandan Patients
A characteristic scalloped thinning pattern of the choroid and RPE is often visible on fundus examination, and together with ERG and OCT findings, this typically sets choroideremia apart from other rod-cone conditions fairly quickly. Confirming a CHM mutation through genetic testing gives a definitive diagnosis and is particularly valuable for identifying female carriers within the family.
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
Given how long central vision typically remains functional, our care plan is built around preserving retinal health for as much of that window as possible. Eligible patients are considered for regenerative stem cell therapy, alongside regular tracking of disease progression and forward planning for low-vision support ahead of any eventual change to central sight.
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 choroideremia mainly show up in males?
“The CHM gene sits on the X chromosome, and men have only one copy of that chromosome — so a single faulty gene is enough to cause disease. Women have two X chromosomes, and the working copy in carriers is normally sufficient to prevent serious vision problems, though minor changes can still occur.”
I’m a carrier — will my sons definitely inherit this?
”
Not definitely. Each son has roughly a one-in-two chance of inheriting the mutated gene, and each daughter has roughly the same chance of becoming a carrier. Genetic testing can give your family a more exact picture.”
How can a doctor distinguish this from ordinary RP just by looking at the eye?
“The distinctive scalloped atrophy affecting both the choroid and RPE together stands out from the more even photoreceptor loss typical of classic RP, and an experienced specialist can often suspect the diagnosis on sight — though genetic testing is needed to confirm it.”
When should monitoring or treatment discussions begin?
“Sooner is better. Getting a specialist assessment done before central vision starts to change keeps more treatment and planning options open than waiting until symptoms appear”
