1. DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELLING
Retinitis Pigmentosa

2. Retinitis Pigmentosa
Retinitis pigmentosa is a hereditary disease characterized by night blindness and constricted visual fields

3. Causes
Hereditary

4. Symptoms Difficulty in seeing in dim light
Constriction of visual fields loss of peripheral field of vision and eventually tubular vision

5. Treatment There is no treatment for Retinitis Pigmentosa as of now
The patient can be explained about low vision aids and life style modifications

6. Role of counsellor
The counsellor should sympathise with the patient about the lack of any treatment for this disease
Should advise about visual rehabilitation like low vision aids

7. Example:
Use of bright torch light while going outdoors in the evening working in good illumination
Should also advise the patient some life style modification eg. Avoiding driving and choosing an occupation which they can perform with the prevailing vision

8. Genetic Counselling
The counsellor must also inform the patient about the hereditary nature of the disease of Retinitis Pigmentosa, Glaucoma, Diabetic and possibility of a similar problem in his/ her siblings and children
The counsellor must convey to the patient about the increased chance of his / her children developing the disease if he / she has a consanguineous marriage

9. THANK YOU