How To Spot And Diagnose X-Linked Retinoschisis

X-linked retinoschisis is a genetically inherited condition that primarily affects individuals with XY chromosomes. The condition is most often diagnosed during childhood, sometimes when infants are as young as three months old. The most characteristic symptom is a reduction in vision that isn't improved with glasses. Some patients experience progressive vision loss over the course of their life, but others have fairly stable vision. X-linked retinoschisis occurs when a mutation in the RS1 gene located on the X chromosome causes the body to improperly produce retinoschisin. Normal retinoschisin is important to help the retina develop and be maintained throughout an individual's life.