This information supports, and does not replace, advice from your healthcare professional.
Overview
Stargardt disease is an inherited eye disorder that causes progressive loss of central vision, usually beginning in childhood or adolescence.
Symptoms
Blurred or distorted central vision Difficulty reading or recognizing faces Loss of color vision Blind spots in central vision Progressive vision loss over time
Causes
Genetic mutations in the ABCA4 gene Autosomal recessive inheritance pattern Accumulation of toxic byproducts in the retina
Diagnosis
Comprehensive eye examination Visual acuity and color vision tests Fundus photography and fluorescein angiography Genetic testing for ABCA4 mutations
Treatment
No cure currently available Low vision aids and adaptive devices Avoiding excessive light exposure to protect the retina Regular monitoring by an ophthalmologist