What does it mean when the white part of the eye turns yellow?

Yellowing of the white part of the eye may be caused by physiological factors, conjunctival pigmented nevi, or conjunctivitis. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Physiological Factors

The color of human organs is determined by certain substances in the body. If liver function is impaired and the liver fails to properly metabolize bilirubin, levels of jaundice-causing substances in the body may increase, leading to yellowing of the eyes. It is important to promptly rule out potential causes such as liver disease. If liver problems are present, timely treatment should be initiated to reduce bilirubin levels and restore the eyes to their normal appearance.

2. Pathological Factors

1) Conjunctival Pigmented Nevus

The conjunctiva is the mucous membrane covering the surface of the eye, normally appearing pink. However, when melanin accumulates on the conjunctiva, it can form a pigmented nevus, which may appear black or sometimes brown, causing the eye to look yellowish. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as levofloxacin eye drops or pranoprofen eye drops to control inflammation and promote gradual absorption of the conjunctival pigmentation.

2) Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, inflammation, or corneal abrasions, and may result in yellowing of the eye. Effective topical antibiotic eye drops or ointments can be used. Broad-spectrum aminoglycosides or quinolones, such as tobramycin, ofloxacin, or other eye drops and ointments, are commonly prescribed.

If yellowing of the eye occurs, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are essential to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate therapy. Ignoring this symptom may delay diagnosis and treatment, potentially leading to more serious complications.