Understanding the disease

Stargardt disease : an orphan disease

 

Stargardt disease is a hereditary orphan disease which affects the macula, the central retina area.

Reported for the first time by Karl Bruno Stargardt in 1909, Stargardt disease is a progressive deterioration of the macula, named macular dystrophy or maculopathy which, in most cases, appears before the age of 20. It then results in a degenerative loss of acuity and central vision in both eyes. Detail perception and recognition of red-green colours are impaired.

The peripheral retina remains functional all life-long (except in rare cases); the field of vision is preserved which enables patients to remain independent.

No treatments exist for now.

Hope: Research is developing and clinical trials are underway.

Share Button