To schedule a visit for yourself or a loved one, call 412-647-4732 or email us at Retinal.Dystrophy@upmc.edu. Before your first visit, we will need access to your past eye health records and test results.
Refer a patient to the Retinal Dystrophy Clinic
To refer someone to our clinic, fax their records and demographic information to 412-647-2064. Include Attn: IRD Clinic on the cover letter.
Call us with questions at 412-647-4732 or email us at Retinal.Dystrophy@upmc.edu
Where to find us for adult and children's IRD care
Our main clinic manages adults with IRDs at the UPMC Vision Institute's new headquarters, the UPMC Mercy Pavilion, at:
1622 Locust Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
We see children with IRDs at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh at:
4401 Penn Avenue, Penguin Suite, Pittsburgh, PA 15224
How to Get Ready for Your Retinal Dystrophy Clinic Appointment
Before planning your first visit, we'll look at your past eye health records. This includes the results of any tests you've had, such as an ERG and DNA testing. Having this data beforehand helps us best prepare for your appointment and avoid repeating tests. You should also check with your health plan about what they cover. If you are worried about the cost of your visit, let us know, and we'll do our best to help.
Your first visit will take a few hours and include dilation. You may want to ask a friend or loved one to drive you.
We urge people we treat to have a thorough exam every one to two years. These appointments last three or four hours, including tests and exams.
We also offer low vision testing and genetic counseling.
We may be unable to arrange all testing on the same day as your regular visit, but we always strive to lessen the number of visits you must make to our clinic.