It is estimated that one in every 5000 to one in every 25000 males have X-linked juvenile retinoschisis. While this condition cannot be cured, there are options that can improve visual function.
X-linked juvenile retinoschisis or x-linked retinoschisis is a genetic condition which affects boys and men. The condition is characterized by abnormal splitting of the retinal layers and is the leading cause of juvenile macular degeneration in males.
The condition usually begins in the first decade of life, and the initial visual acuity ranges from 20/60 to 20/120. In the first and second decades, visual acuity usually declines, but remains stable until the fifth or sixth decade. Patients may become legally blind by the sixth or seventh decade, i.e. their visual acuity falls below 20/200.
Having this condition makes everyday tasks, like reading, driving, grocery shopping, cooking, walking and recognizing others, difficult. If you or your loved one is suffering from this condition, our low vision optometrist will perform a low vision evaluation to determine the extent of your remaining vision. Our goal is to maximize your visual independence and enhance the quality of your life by recommending low vision aids based on the results of the eye exam. For instance, children can benefit from large-text books and high-contrast reading materials, while adults can utilize different types of magnifiers, tints, and adaptive softwares to assist them both at home and work.
Furthermore, low vision optometrists can make recommendations for different types of lighting, placement of lights, improving contrast, and reducing glare to make your life better.
Driving with juvenile retinoschisis
Low vision optometrists can help adults make the most of their vision. In most states, drivers with the condition can obtain restricted licenses if they wear bioptic telescopic lenses behind the wheel. A bioptic telescope consists of a pair of glasses with a telescope attached above your normal line of sight. These can be attached to your regular eyeglasses and can be used either for one or both of your eyes. Bioptic lenses magnify images just like binoculars and help you see things better. Using these lenses allows you to see things that are much further away, which is one of their main benefits.
See our page on the driving laws in Washington with low vision.
Mutations in the RS1 gene on the X chromosome cause X-linked juvenile retinoschisis. This gene produces a protein called retinoschisin. Proteins like this are essential for the development and maintenance of the retina. A lack of normal retinoschisin protein results in splitting of the retina layers, from which the term "schisis" is derived, disruption of inter-cell communication, and loss of vision.
X-linked juvenile retinoschisis is diagnosed through eye examinations using a variety of testing methods. In the majority of cases, people with this condition have reduced vision and schisis visible on examination and imaging, along with abnormal electroretinograms (a test which assesses the retina's function). Some individuals also have a family history of X-linked inheritance. Genetic testing is also available for it. This helps determine an accurate diagnosis as well as the likelihood of a child inheriting the disorder from their parents. The patient is more likely to understand which emerging treatments and clinical trials are most appropriate if they have an accurate diagnosis.
Loss of visual acuity is one of the first signs of x-linked juvenile retinoschisis. Visual prognosis is generally good for uncomplicated cases, and a person may not lose much vision over their lifetime. Some patients may become legally blind.
It is also characterized by cystic macular lesions (like blisters) in the retina. The lesions can cause retinal thickness, which further aggravates vision loss.
Moreover, the disease can progress to vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, and neovascular glaucoma, which might cause severe vision loss.
While there is no cure for this disease, there are ways to slow the loss of vision and help you perform daily tasks and engage in social activities.
There are multiple clinical trials underway that are exploring options to treat juvenile retinoschisis. Many are utilizing cutting edge methods of gene therapy. For example, a National Eye Institute funded study explored the use of gene therapy by introducing a healthy RS1 gene into the cells of the eye to see if this improves the production of healthy retinoschisin in the eyes. The trial explored placing the gene in a non-disease-causing virus.
Long-term monitoring is required for patients with X-linked juvenile retinoschisis. The disease often progresses rapidly in childhood, so a child should be monitored frequently. In the teenage years to middle age, the disease usually stabilizes, at which point annual dilated fundoscopy exams are adequate. Those who are older are at higher risk for progression, vitreous hemorrhage, and retinal detachment. These patients should be closely monitored and/or treated. Annual exams with your low vision optometrist will ensure that you are maximizing your remaining vision and up to date on the latest developments that can improve your vision and life.
In patients with X-linked juvenile retinoschisis, it is suggested to avoid contact sports and other activities that can cause a hard blow to the head. By doing this, you minimize the risk of retinal detachment or eye bleeding.
Surgery is rarely effective in treating X-linked juvenile retinoschisis because the disease only affects the inner layers of the retina. The surgery, however, may be of help to patients with complete retinal detachment.
X-linked juvenile retinoschisis is a genetic condition that affects males. Having this condition makes everyday tasks, like reading, driving, grocery shopping, cooking, walking and recognizing others, difficult. Our goal is to maximize your visual independence and enhance the quality of your life by recommending low vision aids based on the results of the low vision eye exam. Patients visit our low vision clinic from all over Washington, and we are proud to be a leading low vision provider in , Lakewood, Tacoma, Lacey. You can schedule a low vision evaluation with our low vision optometrist at (360) 491-2121 so that we can determine the best course of treatment for you.
Such a nice optician. My grandson is only 4 and needs glasses. We were so sad, but he explained the issues, and we will follow up as he suggested.
I had such a good experience with the clinic. Very friendly staff and doctor, did not have to wait for long to be called, and was treated respectfully. Thanks, American Family.
Dr. Zurcher has gone above and beyond what any other eye doctor has ever done to figure out what is going on with my eyes. Very happy with American Family Vision.
Family Vision Clinic changed our lives! My daughter was frequently car sick, and she was getting headaches every day, often painful enough that they brought her to tears. We saw a string of doctors and therapists, but we made no progress. Finally, we found Dr. Levi Zurcher and his eye therapist Rain. After ten weeks of eye therapy my daughter no longer gets headaches, and she no longer gets car sick. Daily tears are a thing of the past. I really can’t say enough about this clinic. It was fascinating to watch Dr. Zurcher work. For the first time, someone who knew what they were doing was intently studying my daughter, really trying to figure out all of her eye issues, and his therapist Rain is one of the most patient and lovely people that I’ve ever had the good fortune to meet. We’re finished with eye therapy—yay!—and I have switched to American Family Vision Clinic for all of my family’s other eye health needs.
Very professional, yet kind and helpful. They do what they can to make the appointment comfortable. I was running a bit late, I made sure ti call. They were able to switch me with a patient who was already there, they treated me with respect, and helped my son have confidence by getting him the eye care he needed that day. Thank you so much! Would recommend to anyone. It's a blessing that they care enough to work with people who have all different types of insurance from work to state coverage.
The staff is friendly. The Doc is very knowledgeable. The office is family friendly and everyone is so patient with the little ones.
Is foggy vision troubling you? Let our experienced optometrist restore your sight – book an appointment today and see the difference! The term foggy vision often refers to a visual disturbance characterized by blurred, cloudy, or hazy vision, which can make seeing clearly challenging. As your local optometrist, we recognize the significance of maintaining optimal […]
According to the National Eye Institute, nystagmus affects approximately 0.24% of the general population in the United States. This means a whopping 720,000 individuals in the US face the challenges of nystagmus. How does Nystagmus Impact Vision? Nystagmus is a condition that affects the eyes, causing involuntary and rapid movements that can make it difficult to […]
Are you tired of dealing with eyelid inflammation? Well, there's good news for you! Hypochlorous acid, a natural bactericidal compound, has been clinically shown to help fight against various eyelid conditions such as blepharitis, and it's even effective at preventing the development of styes and other eyelid infections. In this blog, we'll be exploring the […]
Monday-Thursday
8:30AM-5:00PM
Friday
8:30AM-3:00PM
Saturday-Sunday
Closed
