Stargardt Disease: Symptoms and Treatment

What is Stargardt Disease?

Stargardt disease is an eye condition that affects the retinal cells in the macula, which is the central region of the eye, according to the Centre for Eye Research Australia. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye containing retinal cells. With Stargardt's disease, these cells become damaged over time, leading to problems such as vision loss, blurriness and light sensitivity.

How is Stargardt Disease Linked to Juvenile Macular Degeneration?

Stargardt disease is linked to juvenile macular degeneration, as it is considered a common form of it. Juvenile macular degeneration refers to conditions wherein macular degeneration is found predominantly in young children and adults.

Is Stargardt Disease a Form of Macular Dystrophy?

Yes, Stargardt Disease is a form of macular dystrophy. The term 'macular dystrophy' refers to a group of conditions that lead to damage of the macula, the most sensitive part of the retina, according to the Macular Society Organisation.

What Causes Stargardt Disease?

The cause of Stargardt disease is due to an abnormal ABCA4 gene, and in recent cases, the ELOVL4 gene, according to the Macular Disease Foundation Australia. When Stargardt disease is associated with the ABCA4 gene, it is an autosomal recessive form of the disease, meaning each parent is a carrier but not affected by the disease themselves, according to Retina Australia.

What are the Common Stargardt Disease Symptoms?

The most common Stargardt disease symptoms include blurred vision, difficulty with light adaptation, a central blind spot, and reduced ability to visually perceive colours. Read more about these common Stargardt disease symptoms below.

• Blurred Vision: Blurred vision is a common symptom of the disease, as the macula is affected as a result, which is responsible for central vision.
• Difficulty with light adaptation: Difficulty with light adaptation is common amongst those with Stargardt disease. This is when individuals find it difficult to see in bright settings after being in more neutral or darker environments.
• Central blind spot: A central blind spot will likely emerge as a result of Stargardt disease, which can block a large amount of your central vision.
• Reduced ability to visually perceive colours: Reduced ability to visually perceive colours will likely occur as colour perception is minimised as a result of the condition.

How does Stargardt Disease Lead to Central Vision Loss?

Stargardt disease leads to central vision loss as it affects the functioning of the macula. Initially, a patient may notice their central vision is unclear, and as the disease progresses, they may notice a blank patch in the centre of their vision, according to the Macular Disease Foundation Australia.

Does Stargardt Disease Always Affect Both Eyes?

Yes, Stargardt disease typically affects both eyes simultaneously making it a bilateral condition.

What Treatment Options are Available for Stargardt Disease?

There are currently no treatment options available for Stargardt disease at the time of writing this article. To ensure clear vision and maintenance, those with Stargardt disease should receive regular eye checks, use low vision aids such as magnifiers, use supportive technology and have extra lighting in dark environments. To ensure symptoms do not worsen, avoid supplements with excessive amounts of vitamin A as the gene mutation may lead to an increased loss of vision, according to the Macular Foundation Australia.

How can Glasses Help People With Stargardt Disease?

Prescription glasses may not help people with Stargardt disease completely, however they can help make the most of their remaining vision. Technology such as electronic glasses can provide a large field of vision, specifically designed for those with central vision loss.

Why is Light Sensitivity Common in Stargardt Disease?

Light sensitivity is common in Stargardt disease, as the retina is affected as a result of the disease. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, which contains different types of retinal cells. When an individual has Stargardt's disease, the retinal cells do not function properly as they become damaged and die over time. This dysfunction can result in light sensitivity issues for those with Stargardt disease.

How do Photochromic and UV-Protective Sunglasses Support Stargardt Vision?

Photochromic and UV protective sunglasses support Stargardt vision as they assist in light adaptation in bright settings. Photochromic glasses may be particularly beneficial as they change from a clear to a dark tint when exposed to sunlight for convenient sun protection and vision correction.

Can Sunglasses Reduce Light Discomfort in Stargardt Disease?

Yes, sunglasses can reduce light discomfort, which is a common symptom in Stargardt disease. Wearing sunglasses in bright settings can ease light sensitivity.

Prescription glasses do not help manage vision loss from Stargardt disease; however, they may optimise residual vision. While they can increase visual clarity, they are not a cure or treatment for vision loss.

What are the Best Glasses Options for Different Age Groups With Stargardt Disease?

There are no best glasses options for different age groups with Stargardt disease. Any glasses with appropriate magnification will depend on the individual's vision needs, not their age.

How does Stargardt Disease Progress Over Time?

The progression of Stargardt disease varies for every individual; however, it is most common that visual acuity, which is the ability to distinguish details and shape, decreases over time according to the Macular Society.