Which visual impairment affects the macula in juveniles?

Stargardt's Disease is a hereditary condition that significantly impacts the macula, which is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. This condition typically presents in childhood or early adulthood and leads to progressive vision loss, primarily affecting the central vision, while peripheral vision often remains intact.

The disease is caused by mutations in the ABCA4 gene, leading to the accumulation of toxic substances in the retinal pigment epithelium, which in turn results in damage to the photoreceptors in the macula. Patients with Stargardt's Disease often experience a gradual decline in visual acuity, challenges with color vision, and the development of a characteristic "beaten bronze" appearance in the macula.

This understanding highlights why Stargardt's Disease is associated specifically with juvenile visual impairment tied to macular degeneration, differentiating it clearly from other conditions listed. For instance, while Leber's Congenital Amaurosis also affects vision but primarily impacts the retina overall rather than specifically targeting the macula, congenital glaucoma primarily affects the drainage of intraocular fluid and leads to optic nerve damage, and favism, a condition caused by an enzyme deficiency, primarily affects the blood and overall health rather than specific visual structures.