Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) refers to a group of diseases which cause a slow but progressive loss of peripheral vision. In each of them there is a gradual loss of the light-sensitive retinal cells called rods and cones.

An estimated 200,000 people in the United States have some form of RP. Most forms of RP are inherited, though its signs do not necessarily appear in every generation.  In some cases, RP may be associated with other health problems, such as hearing loss.

Treatment options include special bioptic telescopic glasses, designed by Dr. Politzer, to enhance and expand peripheral vision.