Why is it important to know about heredity in retinitis pigmentosa?
Most forms of retinitis pigmentosa are inherited, but in about 40% of cases no other family member is known to have retinitis pigmentosa. Learning more about heredity, the family history of people with retinitis pigmentosa, may help predict how the disease will progress for an affected person. Variations can exist from person to person in the same family. The chance of having children or grandchildren who will also have retinitis pigmentosa varies from very unlikely to 50%, depending on the type of retinitis pigmentosa the parent has. Knowledge about heredity is helpful in making decisions about marriage, occupation, and whether to have children. Genetic counselors can help people with retinitis pigmentosa make these important decisions. Is there any treatment for retinitis pigmentosa? It has been reported that Vitamin A Palmitate can slow the progression of retinitis pigmentosa. Large doses of Vitamin A can be harmful to the body. Supplements of Vitamin E alone may make retinitis pigm
