Chorioretinal degeneration is a rare, autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterised by progressive bilateral retinal and choroidal atrophy, which typically manifests at birth or during infancy. This degeneration appears as lesions on the optic nerve and peripheral ocular fundus, ultimately leading to central vision loss. In some cases, it may also be associated with congenital anterior polar cataracts.

Causes of Chorioretinal Degeneration:

The condition is caused by an abnormal gene inherited from family members. It predominantly affects males, with symptoms often beginning in childhood.

Symptoms of Chorioretinal Degeneration:

The initial symptoms include peripheral vision loss, followed by a reduction in colour vision and visual acuity. As the condition progresses, it may lead to nyctalopia (night blindness) and further loss of peripheral visual fields. In severe cases, these symptoms are accompanied by widespread retinal pigmentation and advanced chorioretinal atrophy, affecting both the central and peripheral retina.

Risk Factors of Chorioretinal Degeneration:

 

Chorioretinal degeneration may be associated with obesity, moderate intellectual disability, and congenital mixed deafness (both sensorineural and conductive). Female carriers of the condition often exhibit typical retinal changes indicative of the choroideremia carrier state.

At Sanjeevan Netralaya Ayurvedic Eye Hospital, Chorioretinal Degeneration is treated with great success.