Retinal degeneration can be one feature of a genetic condition that also affects other body systems. Certain genetic faults that cause damage to the eye can also impact other organs and tissues. Where more than one body system is involved, the condition is called a syndrome. However, the sight loss aspect can be very similar to that experienced by people living with non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa.
Abnormalities in the gene, ALMS1, have been identified as the cause of Alström syndrome.
Further detailed information on Alström syndrome is available from:
- Alstrom Syndrome UK
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/alstrom-syndrome/
- https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/alstrom-syndrome
- https://gene.vision/knowledge-base/alstrom-syndrome-for-patients/ (for patients)
- https://gene.vision/knowledge-base/alstrom-syndrome-for-professionals/ (for professionals)
Join our lived experience panel
If you would like to get involved in representing the inherited sight loss community through activities like focus groups, surveys and research projects, join our Experience Panel.