What does LCA mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA) is a rare, inherited eye disorder that causes severe vision impairment and blindness. It affects the retina by causing degeneration of the light-sensing cells, resulting in decreased vision. LCA typically begins within the first few weeks or months of life.

LCA is caused by genetic mutations, which are passed down from parents to their children. For this reason, those with a family history of LCA are at greater risk for developing it themselves.

The most common symptom of LCA is reduced vision, with some patients experiencing complete blindness. Other symptoms may include difficulty seeing in low light; sensitivity to light; poor night vision; and poor color perception.

Diagnosis of LCA usually begins with an eye exam and a detailed family medical history. Genetic testing and other tests such as fundus photography or electroretinography can also be used to confirm LCA diagnosis.

Unfortunately, there is currently no known cure for LCA. However, research into gene therapy treatments has shown promise in improving visual function for patients with certain types of LCA.

Visual aids such as high contrast markers or low-vision glasses may help improve your ability to see objects or read text up close. Magnifying devices may also be beneficial in improving your near vision capabilities.

Although there isn't a cure currently available, there are treatments that can help improve visual acuity and slow down the progression of the condition. These include vitamin A supplementation, gene therapy, stem cell transplantation and pharmaceuticals such as ciliary neurotrophic factor.

The severity and progression of LCA varies from person to person depending on which gene mutation they have inherited and other factors that may influence their symptoms over time. Generally speaking, however, most individuals experience gradual deterioration in vision over time due to degeneration of the retinal cells.