Usher Syndrome is distinct among inherited retinal conditions because it combines progressive retinal degeneration with sensorineural hearing loss, and in some forms, balance difficulties caused by inner-ear (vestibular) dysfunction. It is broadly divided into three clinical types, each with a different pattern and severity of hearing involvement and a different age at which retinal symptoms typically begin.
Because two separate sensory systems are involved, Somali families are guided through a coordinated evaluation that looks at hearing, balance, and vision together, rather than treating the retinal component in isolation.
10+
years Experience
years Experience
5000+
Patients treated
Patients treated
100+
Countries served
Countries served
NABH
Guided facility
Guided facility
Symptoms of Usher Syndrome (Ocular)
Hearing loss is often the first sign to be noticed, and depending on the type may be present from birth (profound, in Type I) or develop gradually starting in childhood (moderate to severe, in Type II). The retinal component follows a rod-cone pattern — night blindness and shrinking peripheral vision — that typically becomes noticeable in later childhood or the teenage years. Type I is additionally associated with balance problems and delayed walking in infancy due to vestibular involvement, which is generally absent in Types II and III.
Causes of Usher Syndrome
Usher Syndrome results from mutations in any of several genes essential to the structure and function of hair cells in the inner ear and photoreceptor cells in the retina — organs that, despite looking very different, share overlapping cellular machinery. Inheritance is autosomal recessive, meaning both parents typically carry one copy of a mutated gene without symptoms themselves.
Diagnosis for Somali Patients
A full audiological assessment is paired with electroretinography and OCT imaging of the retina, and vestibular (balance) testing is added when Type I is suspected. Genetic testing helps confirm the specific Usher type, which is valuable both for prognosis and because it clarifies which family members may benefit from screening.
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
Retinal management follows the same principles used for other rod-cone dystrophies, with stem cell therapy considered as a supportive option for eligible patients. Because the hearing component often requires separate management — including hearing aids or cochlear implant candidacy — the retinal care plan is designed to work alongside, not replace, audiology care that may already be underway or planned in Somalia.
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
Can you treat the hearing loss as well as the vision loss?
“Our team focuses specifically on the retinal aspects of Usher Syndrome. Hearing management, including cochlear implant evaluation, is a separate specialty and we coordinate around whatever audiology care you already have in place or are pursuing locally.”
My child was diagnosed with hearing loss at birth — should we be worried about vision now too?
”
It’s reasonable to ask for a retinal evaluation, particularly if Usher Syndrome Type I is suspected, since vision symptoms in that type can begin to appear from later childhood. Early baseline testing makes it easier to track any changes over time.”
Does every child with hearing loss have Usher Syndrome?
“No — congenital hearing loss has many possible causes, and Usher Syndrome accounts for only a portion of them. Genetic testing alongside a retinal ERG is the most reliable way to confirm or rule out Usher Syndrome specifically.”
Which Usher type does my case fall under, and does that change the plan?
“Type is determined by the pattern and severity of hearing loss, presence or absence of balance issues, and age of retinal symptom onset, confirmed where possible by genetic testing. It does influence prognosis discussions, though the general framework for retinal evaluation and management is similar across types.”
