Usher Syndrome

What is Usher Syndrome?

Usher syndrome is an inherited condition characterized by a congenital bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), an eye disease in which there is damage to the retina. Usher syndrome is named for the Scottish ophthalmologist Charles Usher, who examined the pathology and transmission of this genetic mutation in 1914.

When Should I Screen for Usher Syndrome?

Rule 6A-6.03013, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) states, "A screening for Usher’s Syndrome shall be administered to each student who is deaf or hard-of-hearing at least once during grades 6-12." Students who are at high risk may need to be screened once in middle school and once in high school.

How Do I Screen for Usher Syndrome?

The Florida Department of Education has a document titled Screening Guide for Usher Syndrome. If more guidance is required, please see the online module "How to Screen for Usher Syndrome."