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Eye
Eye
White spots in the pupil
White spots in the pupil
White pupil
White pupil


Pupil - white spots

Definition:

This condition causes the pupil of the eye to look white instead of black.



Alternative Names:
Leukocoria

Considerations:

The the pupil of the human eye is normally black. In flash photographs the pupil may appear red, an effect called "red eye." This is also called the "red reflex" by health care providers, and is entirely normal.

On occasion, the pupil of the eye may appear white. This is never a normal condition and requires immediate evaluation by trained specialists (ophthalmologists, "eye doctors," not optometrists who generally prescribe lenses or glasses).

There are many different causes for white pupil, which are described below. Other conditions can also mimic white pupil. A cloudy cornea (usually, the clear part of the eye) may produce an appearance similar to a white pupil. The causes of a cloudy or white cornea are different from those of a white pupil, but are also significant and require immediate attention.

Cataracts may also cause the pupil to appear white.



Common Causes:



Review Date: 5/18/2006
Reviewed By: Paul B. Griggs, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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