Aniridia is an eye disorder characterized by a complete or partial absence of the colored part of the eye (the iris). These iris abnormalities may cause the pupils to be abnormal or misshapen. Aniridia can cause reduction in the sharpness of vision (visual acuity) and increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).
People with aniridia can also have other eye problems. Increased pressure in the eye (glaucoma) typically appears in late childhood or early adolescence. Clouding of the lens of the eye (cataracts), occur in 50 percent to 85 percent of people with aniridia. In about 10 percent of affected people, the structures that carry information from the eyes to the brain (optic nerves) are underdeveloped. Individuals with aniridia may also have involuntary eye movements (nystagmus) or underdevelopment of the region at the back of the eye responsible for sharp central vision (foveal hypoplasia). Many of these eye problems contribute to progressive vision loss in affected individuals. The severity of symptoms is typically the same in both eyes.
Our prosthetic & hand painted lenses can reduce light sensitivity & minimize macular damage in patients with an Iris, either due to a congenital abnormality, trauma or surgical excision. Because aniridia affects the iris (which controls the amount of light entering the eye), individuals with aniridia generally have issues with glare and strong light sources. While indoors, try to position yourself or child away from direct sunlight or have the light source come from behind / For example, rather than positioning your child’s highchair facing the window, put the highchair facing away from the window as it may be uncomfortable for your child to look into bright light.
We know Eye Care Professionals who are trained to treat Aniridia – many in your area. Just send us an e-mail and we will send you their names and addresses.