Coloboma is an eye problem that can form due to underdevelopment of the eyes when baby is growing inside the womb. The defect can develop because of a gap in the structure of the eyes such as the iris, lens, eyelid, retina, choroid or optic disc.
Types of Coloboma
Coloboma can mildly or severely affect the vision depending on how big the gap is and where it is located inside the eyes.
- Fundus or Optic Disc Coloboma: It develops as a large gap inside the optic nerves and/or macula. This can severely affect the vision.
- Iris Coloboma: Commonly, coloboma can affect only the iris. The iris may appear as a key-hole or oval shape structure instead of normal round shape. Iris coloboma can occur in one eye or both the eyes and can affect the central vision. Children may dislike exposure to bright lights because of limiting ability of the iris to allow normal amount of light to enter into the eyes.
- Choroid Coloboma: This type of coloboma is similar to retinal coloboma
- If eyelids are affected, it may not close properly leaving the eyes watery and dry.
- Morning Glory Syndrome: It affects the shape of the optic nerve. The coloboma is so called because the optic nerves looks like the inside of a morning glory flower.
What Causes Coloboma?
Though the particular genetic inheritance is yet to be identified, it is assumed that coloboma can cause because of mutation in the PAX2 gene. This can also occur due to eye trauma.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Coloboma?
Some of the common signs and symptoms of coloboma are impaired vision, partial loss of iris, visual field loss, development of nystagmus, etc.
How is Coloboma eye Diagnosed?
Parents of the affected child may notice key-hole like shape of the iris. They may also notice that the child is trying to avoid bright lights or act like they are suffering from impaired vision. Parents may want to take advice from a specialist.
What are the Treatments of Coloboma Eye?
At present, there is no treatment for coloboma eye. During the early years, the child will be regularly monitored to check the condition of eyes. Later on, every 6 months up to the age of 7 eye tests will be carried out. Glasses might be prescribed. Though, glasses cannot correct coloboma, but it can correct myopia or hypermetropia, thereby correcting parts of vision that is not affected by coloboma. In the later stage, cosmetic contact lenses can be prescribed.
