04/17/2026
Case of the week is Stargardt Disease.
Many people haven't heard of Stargardt disease, but for those living with it, the world looks a little different.
Stargardt disease is a rare genetic eye condition that causes progressive vision loss. It specifically affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for sharp, central vision.
Here are a few facts:
đź“Ť **The Cause:** A buildup of fatty deposits (lipofuscin) on the retina, which eventually damages the cells we use for seeing detail.
đź“Ť **The Symptoms:** Blurry or distorted central vision, "blind spots," and difficulty seeing in low light.
đź“Ť **The Timing:** It usually begins in childhood or adolescence, though it can sometimes emerge later in life.
đź“Ť **The Vision:** While it affects central vision (making it hard to read or recognize faces), peripheral (side) vision usually remains intact.
Right now, there is no cure, but researchers are working hard on gene therapies and new treatments! Below are some retinal images of an early case the we had confirmed through genetic testing. Acuity still measures good clinically at 20/25, but the visual image quality has deteriorated.
