Leber Congenital Amaurosis, commonly shortened to LCA, sits at the more severe end of the inherited retinal dystrophy spectrum, producing serious vision impairment either at birth or within the child’s first few months. It’s one of the more frequently identified causes of inherited blindness in infancy, and a diagnosis understandably leaves Zimbabwean parents with an immediate string of urgent questions about cause and next steps.
Because LCA declares itself so early in life, evaluating it looks quite different from how adult-onset dystrophies are approached. Speed matters here — confirming the diagnosis, identifying the gene involved where possible, and getting developmental and visual support started without delay.
10+
years Experience
years Experience
5000+
Patients treated
Patients treated
100+
Countries served
Countries served
NABH
Guided facility
Guided facility
Ocular Symptoms
In the earliest weeks and months, parents typically notice their baby struggling to fix or follow objects visually, along with wandering eye movements called nystagmus and an unusual sensitivity to light. Many infants also develop the oculodigital sign — repeatedly pressing or rubbing at their eyes — believed to be a self-generated way of producing visual sensation. Refraction testing frequently reveals significant far-sightedness as well.
Underlying Causes
Over two dozen genes have been connected to LCA, with GUCY2D, RPE65, and CEP290 appearing most frequently in clinical practice, and the majority of cases inherit in an autosomal recessive fashion. Pinpointing the specific gene involved carries real weight — it can influence associated findings and, in some instances, open the door to gene-targeted treatment options.
Diagnosis for Zimbabwean Patients
Electroretinography in an affected infant usually shows a response that is severely diminished or entirely flat — a critical clue for ruling out other causes of poor infant vision such as delayed visual maturation. We push for genetic testing as early as circumstances allow, paying close attention to RPE65 mutations in particular, since the responsible gene shapes both the outlook and future treatment eligibility.
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 early and how severely LCA presents, we combine a full retinal evaluation — weighing regenerative stem cell therapy where the findings support it — with immediate low-vision and developmental support tailored to a young child, recognising that early intervention can meaningfully shape a child’s overall growth. Families are supported through what to anticipate at each developmental stage.
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
Does an LCA diagnosis mean my child sees nothing at all?
“Not necessarily. The degree of vision loss differs by gene and by child, and some children retain useful light perception or limited form vision. A complete evaluation is the only way to establish exactly what functional vision is present.”
How quickly should we get our child assessed?
”
As soon as you notice unusual visual behaviour. Acting early means genetic testing — especially important for spotting RPE65-related cases — can begin sooner, and developmental support can start without losing valuable time.”
We’re already fairly sure of the diagnosis — is genetic testing still necessary?
“Yes, definitely. With more than twenty genes potentially responsible for LCA, identifying the exact one affects the prognosis and could determine eligibility for gene-specific treatments that exist or are being developed, RPE65 cases especially.”
Can children with LCA attend mainstream school?
“It depends heavily on how much usable vision remains and how early support services begin. Many children with LCA thrive with timely intervention, and we’re happy to discuss what that path might look like for your child.”
