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Alternative names Return to top
Differently colored eyes; Eyes - different colorsDefinition Return to top
Heterochromia is the presence of different colored eyes in the same person.Considerations Return to top
This condition is relatively rare in humans. However, heterochromia appears quite commonly in dogs (such as Dalmatians and Australian sheep dogs), cats, and horses.
Common Causes Return to top
Heterochromia in humans can be hereditary, caused by a disease or syndrome, or due to an injury. Rock star David Bowie has heterochromia, reportedly due to an eye injury.
Specific causes include:
Call your health care provider if Return to top
If you notice new changes in the color of one eye or that your infant has two differently colored eyes, consult your health care provider to be sure this isn't a symptom of a medical problem.
A complete eye exam conducted by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) is also recommended. Some conditions and syndromes associated with heterochromia, such as pigmentary glaucoma, can only be detected by a thorough ophthalmic exam.
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
The following questions may help evaluate the cause:
An infant with heterochromia should be examined for other problems.
A complete eye examination can rule out most causes of heterochromia. If there doesn't seem to be an underlying disorder, no further testing may be necessary. If another disorder is suspected, diagnostic tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. This may include various blood tests, chromosome studies, or others.
Update Date: 2/26/2004 Updated by: A.D.A.M. editorial. Previous review by Raymond S. Douglas, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Ophthalmology, Universtiy of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (5/20/2002).
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |