Genetics and Inheritance

Retinitis Pigmentosa is an inherited disease. It is caused by mutations in the genetic material or DNA, which people are born with. It is not contagious and it is not caused by injury, infection or exposure to any toxic substances. There are 3 patterns by which people can inherit RP. They are called 'autosomal dominant', 'autosomal recessive' and 'X-linked recessive'.