Eye Care
Retinal and Macular Dystrophy
Our caring ophthalmology team provides personalized diagnoses and treatment for retinal and macular dystrophies. We help support and preserve your vision.
Medically reviewed by Susanna Park, M.D. on July 01, 2026.
What are Retinal and Macular Dystrophies?
Retinal and macular dystrophies are a group of rare, inherited eye disorders that can cause vision changes and loss. Retinal dystrophy can affect any part of your retina (the back of your eye), while macular dystrophy affects the center of your retina (macula).
While experts don’t know the exact number of retinal and macular dystrophies, more than 270 genes are currently linked to these disorders.
Symptoms of retinal and macular dystrophies can begin at any age and may cause worsening vision over time. The changes in vision can happen slowly in some people, while others may notice faster worsening.
The board-certified ophthalmologists at the UC Davis Eye Center have expertise in diagnosing and managing retinal and macular dystrophies. We provide caring, knowledgeable support, helping to preserve your vision and quality of life.
On this page
Symptoms of Retinal and Macular Dystrophy
The symptoms of retinal and macular dystrophy can differ depending on the condition and usually develop slowly over many years. Some people have symptoms at birth, while others may not see changes until they are older. We understand that vision changes can be worrying, and our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Common Symptoms
If you have retinal or macular dystrophy, you may experience:
- Blurred vision
- Colors appearing dull or faded
- Difficulty focusing on close-up work or reading
- Reduced night vision
- Seeing blank or dark spots in the center of vision
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Straight lines appearing wavy or bent
- Persistent and usually worsening vision over time
Emergency Symptoms
Symptoms of retinal and macular dystrophy usually develop slowly and are not considered an emergency. If you notice sudden changes in your vision, it could be a different eye problem. Contact your provider right away if you experience:
- Dark shadow or curtains in your vision
- Flashing lights
- New floaters in your vision
- Sudden vision loss
Causes of Retinal and Macular Dystrophy
Retinal and macular dystrophies are genetic disorders. This means that individuals inherit the abnormal genes (genetic mutations) that cause the disorder from their parents.
Diagnosis and Testing for Retinal and Macular Dystrophy
If you have symptoms of retinal or macular dystrophy, your doctor may refer you to an ophthalmologist to examine your eyes and perform diagnostic tests. Tests may include:
Electroretinogram
An electroretinogram measures how your retina responds to light. Your provider numbs your eyes with eye drops and places a tiny thread electrode on each eye surface, then flashes a light. The electrode records your retina’s response to the light.
Fluorescein Angiography
In this test, a dye is injected into your arm vein and a camera captures images of your retina as the dye reaches the eye. It is used to examine blood flows and structural changes in your retina. Your eyes are dilated with eye drops so that pictures can be taken of the inside of your eye.
Genetic Testing
Genetic testing can identify abnormal genes that cause retinal and macular dystrophies and help to diagnose your eye condition. Your provider takes a sample of your blood or saliva and sends it to a lab for examination.
Vision Testing
A visual acuity test determines how well you can see letters at a standard distance.
Treatment for Retinal and Macular Dystrophy
There is no treatment at present for retinal or macular dystrophies that will stop the disease from getting worse. However, several new treatments are being developed to minimize worsening. Your provider may recommend some lifestyle changes that may protect the retina and potentially help minimize worsening vision.
Mobility Training
Mobility (movement) training helps you learn to navigate while living with vision impairment.
Prescription Glasses
Prescription glasses can help vision for reading and daily activities.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses can shield sensitive eyes from bright UV light.
Vision Aids
Magnifying devices, reading glasses and other low-vision tools can help you see details more clearly.
Experts estimate
2MPeople worldwide are affected by retinal dystrophies.
Source: Progress in Retinal and Eye Research: Unravelling the Genetics of Inherited Retinal Dystrophies: Past, Present and Future
Request an Appointment
As Sacramento's No. 1 hospital, you'll benefit from unique advantages in primary care and specialty care. This includes prevention, diagnosis and treatment options from experts in 150 specialties.
Referring Physicians
To refer a patient, submit an electronic referral form or call.
Patients
Call to make an appointment.
Consumer Resource Center
Awards and Recognitions
Ranked among the best in 6 specialties
A U.S. News & World Report best hospital in cancer care, cardiology, heart & vascular surgery, geriatrics, neurology & neurosurgery, orthopedics, and pulmonology & lung surgery.
Ranked among the nation’s best children’s hospitals
U.S. News & World Report ranked UC Davis Children’s Hospital among the best in pediatric nephrology, orthopedics*, and neonatology. (*Together with Shriners Children’s Northern California)
Ranked Sacramento’s #1 hospital
Ranked Sacramento’s #1 hospital by U.S. News, and recognized in 23 types of care including acute kidney failure, cancer care, cardiology, heart & vascular surgery, COPD, colon cancer surgery, diabetes, diabetes & endocrinology, ear, nose & throat surgery, gastroenterology & GI surgery, geriatrics, gynecological cancer surgery, heart arrhythmia, heart attack, heart failure, hip fracture, hip replacement, leukemia, lymphoma & myeloma, lung cancer surgery, neurology & neurosurgery, orthopedics, pneumonia, pulmonology & lung surgery and stroke.
The nation’s highest nursing honor
UC Davis Medical Center has received Magnet® recognition, the nation’s highest honor for nursing excellence.
World-class cancer care
One of ~59 U.S. cancer centers designated “comprehensive” by the National Cancer Institute.
A leader in health care equality
For the 13th consecutive year, UC Davis Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader by the educational arm of America’s largest civil rights organization.
Latest Eye Health News
