The University of Wisconsin – Madison Inherited Retinal Degeneration (IRD) Clinic was established by UW Health and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences to offer expanded services such as specialized examinations and testing, physician consultation, genetic counseling, imaging, lab work and information about ongoing clinical trials and current research about inherited eye diseases.
WHAT ARE INHERITED RETINAL DEGENERATIONS?
Inherited retinal degenerations are a group of rare eye disorders caused by an inherited genetic mutation, and can result in vision loss or blindness.
INHERITED RETINAL DEGENERATIONS INCLUDE:
- Retinitis Pigmentosa
- Usher Syndrome
- Best Disease
- Rod-Cone Dystrophy
- Cone Rod Dystrophy
- Stargardt
- Albinism
- Achromatopsia
- Choroideremia
- Dominant optic atrophy
- Leber congenital amaurosis
- Leber optic neuropathy
- Bardet Biedl
- Congenital stationery night blindness
- X-linked Retinoschisis
- MELAS and other mitochondrial retinopathy
- Gyrate Atrophy
- Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum
What can you expect from your inherited retinal degenerations clinic visit?
- IRD specialist care
- Longer appointment times
- Specialized clinical testing
- Specialized clinical imaging
- Genetic consultation
- Clinical trials opportunities
- Educational opportunities
- Coping resources and services
Meet Our IRD Specialists
Kimberly E. Stepien, MD
Professor, Co-Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs, John W. and Helen Doolittle Professor
Melanie Schmitt, MD
Assistant Professor, John W. and Helen Doolittle Professor
