Heterochromia Sympathetic

Heterochromia sympathetic (h. sympathica) is a rare eye disease in which the irises of the right and left eyes have different colors. This occurs due to disruption of the innervation of the iris during intrauterine development of the fetus.

With sympathetic heterochromia, the color of the iris of one eye remains normal, while the other changes to a lighter shade. Most often there is a color change from brown to blue or green.

The causes of sympathetic heterochromia are not fully understood. It is assumed that it can be caused by injury or inflammation of the eye during pregnancy. Genetic factors are also possible.

This type of heterochromia does not require treatment. It does not affect vision and is purely cosmetic. If desired, the color of the iris can be changed using contact lenses or surgical correction.