What is the major inherited condition that leads to blindness in childhood?

Retinitis pigmentosa is the major inherited condition that leads to blindness in childhood. This genetic disorder primarily affects the retina, causing progressive degeneration of photoreceptors—specifically rods and cones—which are responsible for vision. Symptoms often begin with night blindness and peripheral vision loss, eventually leading to significant vision impairment and even complete blindness over time.

Retinitis pigmentosa can be inherited in several ways, including autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, and X-linked patterns, emphasizing its genetic basis. Early diagnosis is crucial because it allows for family genetic counseling and monitoring for associated conditions.

In contrast, myopia is a refractive error rather than an inherited condition that directly leads to blindness. Strabismus, commonly known as crossed eyes, affects alignment rather than overall vision loss, while amblyopia, often referred to as “lazy eye,” results from developmental issues rather than a degenerative genetic condition. Thus, retinitis pigmentosa is unique in its inherited nature and its severe impact on visual function in children.