Coloboma

Coloboma is a very rare condition and may be described as a condition which occurs when the eye stops growing before it is actually fully developed. It is actually a congenital eye disorder. It manifests as a gap in the structure of the eyes and this gap may appear in different areas of the eye such as iris, eyelid, retina of the eye, macula, choroid, optic disc, ciliary body, etc. The condition generally gives a split iris effect to the eyes and such eyes are also referred to as cat eyes.

In this condition, during the formation of the eye when the foetus is there in the womb of the mother, the fissure of the eye does not get closed completely and as a result the defect results. The gap that appears in the eyes generally remains throughout the life.

In some people who are affected by this condition, the vision may not be affected whereas in some others vision can be largely affected and at times even both the eyes may be affected. In some of the people, seriousness may be to the extent of the condition leading to total blindness while a few others may only be sensitive to bright light. The degree of vision impairment actually depends upon the extent to which the formation of the eye has been completed.

It generally appears as a black round hole in the eye. The defect which is generally restricted to the iris of the eye may also get extended to the retina, choroid and optic nerve. This disorder is either diagnosed at birth or shortly after birth. At times, in addition there can be other causes other than heredity. These are eye surgery and trauma to the eye.

Medical attention should be immediately seeked when an unusual shape of the pupil is noticed or if there appears to be a hole in the iris of the eye. One should also call for medical attention in case of blurred vision or decreased vision.

Back from Coloboma to eye problems section.

Laser eye surgery review home page.

A - Z site map.