Definition of Sorsby's Pseudo-Inflammatory Macular Dystrophy

Sorsby's pseudo-inflammatory macular dystrophy is an inherited condition that causes degeneration of the central macula of the retina, leading to vision changes. The condition usually develops in the second to fourth decades of life with loss of central vision. Night blindness or difficulties adapting to changes in light intensity can be early associated symptoms. The condition is caused by mutations in a gene known as TIMP3, and it is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. This means that only one copy of the altered gene (from either parent) is needed to cause the condition.