Which disease is a hereditary form of macular degeneration occurring in juveniles?

Stargardt's disease is a hereditary form of macular degeneration that typically manifests in children or young adults, distinguishing it from other types of macular degeneration that usually occur later in life. It is caused by mutations in the ABCA4 gene, which plays a crucial role in the functioning of photoreceptor cells in the retina. Individuals with Stargardt's disease experience progressive vision loss due to the accumulation of lipofuscin, a toxic material that can build up and damage retinal cells.

In contrast, while macular degeneration is a broader term that encompasses various conditions affecting the macula, not all forms are hereditary or seen in juveniles. Presbyopia is an age-related refractive condition affecting near vision, and exophoria refers to a type of eye misalignment rather than a disease affecting the macula. Therefore, Stargardt's disease is specifically recognized for its juvenile onset and genetic basis, uniquely qualifying it as the correct answer in the context of hereditary macular degeneration occurring in young individuals.