Disease overview

AIPL1-related progressive retinal atrophy in cats is closely related to Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). In humans, LCA is a heterogeneous group of early-onset childhood retinal dystrophies. LCA is considered to be the most severe form of retinopathy. The LCA phenotype has been described in Persian cats and is also known as Persian Retinal Atrophy (Persian PRA).

Gene name

AIPL1

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Cats with LCA present with reduced pupillary light reflexes as early as 2–3 weeks of age. The disease progresses rapidly and complete loss of photoreceptors can be observed by 16–17 weeks of age.

How is it diagnosed

LCA is diagnosed with an in-depth opthalmic exam. Your veterinarian can both diagnose and stage the disease using this tool.

Breeds at higher risk

, Persian-derived

Citations

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24777202/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27030474/

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.