Retinitis pigmentosa (RP)
A group of inherited eye diseases that gradually destroy retinal photoreceptors, causing night blindness first and progressive peripheral vision loss.
Open VisualSim →What it looks like
The first sign of RP is usually trouble seeing in dim light — walking at dusk, navigating a dark room, or driving at night becomes difficult while others see fine. Over years to decades, peripheral vision narrows progressively until the patient is left with only central tunnel vision — sometimes described as "looking through a paper towel tube." Eventually central vision can also be affected. Many patients see brief lights or photopsias as the disease progresses.
Why night vision goes first
RP primarily damages rod photoreceptors, which are responsible for low-light and peripheral vision. Cone photoreceptors (which handle central vision and color) are affected later.
When to see a doctor
New night blindness — especially in childhood, adolescence, or young adulthood — warrants a referral to a retinal specialist for full examination, electroretinography, and possible genetic testing. RP is hereditary; family members should also be evaluated.
Also known as
RP · Inherited retinal dystrophy