This is an inherited disease that eventually leads to blindness by age 60. It affects both eyes. The first problems are seen in teenagers and young adults. They develop night blindness, then a circular peripheral blindspot, then tunnel vision.

Usually there is good central vision but poor side vision which makes it difficult to walk or drive. Later by age 35-40, cataracts may develop, requiring surgery. There is no medical or surgical treatment for retinitis pigmentosa, but they are busy with research.