Purpose: To report a complex mutation in the peripherin/RDS gene found in a family in whom retinal pattern dystrophy is segregating as an autosomal dominant trait.

Methods: Clinical data were collected from family members of a large Swiss family affected by autosomal dominant retinal pattern dystrophy. Single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis of the candidate gene peripherin/RDS and subsequent sequencing of the first exon were performed.

Results: Pattern dystrophy of the retina was suspected in 18 family members aged 30 years or older. Assuming a homogeneous phenotype, the candidate locus peripherin/RDS was investigated. SSCP analysis of the first exon of the peripherin/RDS gene showed an aberrant pattern in 18 affected individuals. Direct sequencing of polymerase chain reaction products detected a complex mutation, del265-268GCCA ins AGGGCC, leading to a stop codon at amino acid position 99.

Conclusion: To our knowledge, we report the first complex mutation in the peripherin/RDS gene as the cause of a mild macular phenotype, supporting the importance of molecular diagnosis in genetic counseling.