What Causes Yellowing of the Sclera (the “White” of the Eye)?
Disease description:
This morning, I noticed that my child’s sclera (the white part of the eye) appeared yellow, although the child is in good spirits. What could be causing the yellowing of the sclera?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen You
Yellowing of the black part of the eye (iris) is most likely caused by loss or abnormality of iris pigment. When the iris turns yellow, the normally black-appearing eye appears yellow—a condition that may result from congenital developmental abnormalities or disorders such as albinism. Additionally, heterochromic iridocyclitis (a form of uveitis) can cause depigmentation and fading of iris color, leading to yellowish discoloration of the iris; this may even be accompanied by secondary glaucoma.
