Stargardt's Disease is a form of macular degeneration that causes gradual loss of central vision due to the degeneraton of the cone receptor cells. Cones are concentrated in the macula (the area responsible for detailed central vision) and aid in color perception and detailed sight. This disease afftects both eyes but does not harm peripheral vision. Over time, a hole forms in the central vision and colors can no longer be perceived.

Stargardt's disease is genetically passed from generation to generation. In order for subsequent generation to get Stargardt's disease, both parents must carry the recessive gene and even then, the children of the gene carriers only have a 25% chance of developing the disease.

Signs and Symptoms
gradual loss of vision
gray or black area in the center of vision
blurry vision not correctable with glasses
can't adapt to changes in light very well

Diagnosis
A dilated fundus exam is required. In children complaining of poor vision, diagnosis may be difficult. Over time, it will become more evident during examinations. For testing, electrodiagnostic tests, color vision tests, visual field tests, and fluorescein angiograms may be performed.

Treatment
Unfortunately there is no effective treatment for Stargardt's disease. For leaking blood vessels, laser treatments may be performed to help stabilize some vision.

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