Night Blindness: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Insights

Q: Night Blindness: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Insights

Hello： According to the classification standards published by the Military Personnel Administration, there is no severity distinction made for bilateral retinal pigmentary degeneration. <br>The instructions for nutritional supplements containing lutein indicate that lutein is ben

What are the issues related to night blindness?

Hello, I recently experienced a significant decrease in my night vision, so I went to see a doctor at a private ophthalmology clinic.
After administering a dilating agent and conducting some tests, I was initially diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (night blindness) in both eyes.
Before I ask my questions, I have searched previous Q&A and found that this condition is classified as an immune phenotype.
Does that mean that as long as both eyes have night blindness, regardless of severity, it is considered an immune phenotype? During my examination, the doctor showed me some photos of this condition, indicating that there are different stages.
He mentioned that I am in the early stage, where near the pupil, I can already see black deposits upon close inspection.
Does this still count as an immune phenotype?
My second question is whether this condition is truly untreatable.
The doctor mentioned that in the past two years, there has been something called lutein that seems to help treat it, but it requires long-term use.
Is that true?
Best wishes.

Yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/09/25

Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology

Hello: According to the classification standards published by the Military Personnel Administration, there is no severity distinction made for bilateral retinal pigmentary degeneration.
The instructions for nutritional supplements containing lutein indicate that lutein is beneficial for the retina, particularly the macula, but it cannot be considered a treatment for night blindness.
Sincerely, Dr.
Wang Zhang-ji, Ophthalmology.

Reply Date: 2004/09/25

More Info

Night blindness, or nyctalopia, is a condition characterized by difficulty seeing in low light or darkness. It can be caused by various underlying issues, including retinal diseases like retinitis pigmentosa, which is what you seem to be experiencing based on your diagnosis of retinal pigmentary degeneration. This condition is often hereditary and leads to the progressive degeneration of the retina, particularly affecting the rod photoreceptors that are crucial for night vision.

Your inquiry about whether the presence of night blindness in both eyes qualifies as an "immunological condition" is somewhat misleading. The term "immunological condition" typically refers to disorders that involve the immune system, such as autoimmune diseases. Retinitis pigmentosa is not classified as an autoimmune disorder; rather, it is primarily a genetic condition. The fact that both eyes are affected does not categorize it as an immunological issue but rather indicates a systemic retinal condition that is often inherited.

Regarding the stages of retinitis pigmentosa, it is common for ophthalmologists to classify the disease based on the extent of retinal damage observed during examinations. Early-stage retinitis pigmentosa may present with symptoms like night blindness and peripheral vision loss, while later stages can lead to tunnel vision and eventual blindness. The presence of black deposits near the pupil that you mentioned is indicative of retinal changes associated with this condition, and it aligns with the early-stage diagnosis your doctor provided.

As for treatment options, currently, there is no definitive cure for retinitis pigmentosa. However, research is ongoing, and some treatments aim to slow the progression of the disease or manage symptoms. The mention of lutein is interesting; lutein is a carotenoid that is thought to have protective effects on the retina and may help improve visual function in some individuals. While there is no conclusive evidence that lutein can reverse retinal degeneration, it may provide some benefits when taken as part of a comprehensive approach to eye health. It is essential to consult with your eye care professional regarding the appropriate dosage and duration of lutein supplementation.

In addition to lutein, other potential treatments under investigation include gene therapy, retinal implants, and stem cell therapy. These approaches are still largely experimental and may not be widely available. Regular follow-ups with your ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor the progression of your condition and to discuss any new treatment options that may arise.

In summary, while night blindness can be a challenging condition to manage, understanding its underlying causes and staying informed about potential treatments can empower you to take proactive steps in your eye health journey. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment plans tailored to your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Night Blindness: Symptoms and Diagnosis Explained

Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire whether not being able to see anything in a completely dark room could be a sign of night blindness. Recently, I've noticed that I have difficulty reading signs at night, and I'm unsure if this is related to my myopia (one eye over...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Wei: If you find it difficult to read the signs outside at night, it may be related to your prescription. Try wearing glasses to see if it improves your clarity; if it does, then there is likely no issue, and it should not be night blindness. After examination, everything a...

Understanding Night Blindness: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help

Hello doctor, I have hyperopia in my right eye of +100 and astigmatism of -50, and +50 in my left eye. Since graduating from high school, whenever all the lights are turned off, I cannot see anything around me; it is completely dark. Even when wearing glasses, it remains dark, an...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Ning Ning: Based on your situation, it seems like you may be experiencing symptoms of night blindness. Please visit a large hospital for a detailed examination. Thank you for your message.

Understanding Night Vision Issues: Possible Causes and Tests Explained

I have a question. At night, I have difficulty seeing clearly. I went to the Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital for an eye examination, and the doctor administered a dilating agent. The doctor said everything was fine. However, when I went back for another check-up, I asked ...

Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology
Hello! EOG (Electrooculography) and ERG (Electroretinography) are tests used to measure the retina and optic nerve. If you want to determine whether you have night blindness, it is best to have an examination at a medical center. Bilateral retinal pigmentary degeneration (night b...

Glaucoma or Night Blindness: Understanding Your Eye Condition

Hello doctor, I was diagnosed with macular degeneration during my health check-up in January this year. Subsequent follow-up examinations revealed that I have low-tension glaucoma (my eye pressure was approximately 10-15 before using eye drops). I have consulted two or three diff...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Dear Confused Individual: Due to the complexity of your condition, it is difficult to provide a recommendation. I suggest you go directly to a medical center for an examination, as you may receive a more accurate diagnosis. Dr. He Jianxian, Department of Ophthalmology, Nantou Hos...