A white pupil, also known as leukocoria, is an abnormal white reflection from the retina of the eye, instead of the normal red reflex that is typically seen when light shines into the eye. This condition is often a sign of a serious underlying eye problem. Leukocoria can be caused by various conditions, including congenital cataracts, which are clouding of the eye's lens present at birth; retinoblastoma, a rare but serious eye cancer in children; retinal detachment; Coats' disease, which involves abnormal blood vessel development in the retina; and persistent fetal vasculature, a developmental disorder of the eye. Other causes may include toxocariasis, an infection caused by a parasitic worm, or advanced stages of eye diseases such as retinopathy of prematurity in infants born prematurely.
Treatment for a white pupil depends on the underlying cause and requires prompt medical evaluation by an ophthalmologist to prevent vision loss and address any potentially life-threatening conditions. If the white pupil is due to a cataract, surgical removal of the cataract may be necessary. In the case of retinoblastoma, treatments might include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on the stage and location of the tumor. For retinal detachment or Coats' disease, surgical intervention or laser therapy may be needed to repair the retina and prevent further damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preserving vision and preventing complications associated with the conditions causing leukocoria.
