Seeing the white part of your eye turning brown, known as the sclera, can be alarming. This change in coloration may be due to various causes, ranging from benign conditions to more serious health issues.
Understanding the potential reasons behind this discoloration is crucial for determining the appropriate action and ensuring eye health. Early detection and diagnosis can prevent complications and help maintain your vision.
Common Causes of Brown Spots on the Sclera
1. Melanosis
Melanosis is a benign condition characterized by increased pigmentation on the sclera. It can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life. This pigmentation usually appears as flat, brown spots and is generally harmless.
However, monitoring these spots for size, shape, or color changes is essential; as such changes could indicate a more severe condition.
2. Nevus
A nevus is a mole on the eye, similar to those on the skin. These pigmented spots are typically benign and may be present from birth or develop over time.
While nevi are usually harmless, they should be regularly checked by an eye specialist to rule out malignancy, especially if they show any signs of change.
3. Conjunctival Epithelial Melanosis
This condition involves increased melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment, within the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the sclera).
Conjunctival epithelial melanosis is often seen in people with darker skin tones and is generally considered benign. Regular eye exams are recommended to monitor any changes.
4. Primary Acquired Melanosis (PAM)
PAM is a condition that typically affects middle-aged or elderly individuals. It appears as flat, brown patches on the conjunctiva and sclera. PAM can be benign, but in some cases, it has the potential to develop into melanoma, a type of eye cancer.
Therefore, an eye care professional should evaluate any new or changing pigmentation.
5. Scleral Icterus
Scleral icterus is a yellowing of the sclera, sometimes appearing brownish in certain lighting conditions. This discoloration is usually associated with jaundice, a condition resulting from elevated bilirubin levels in the blood.
Jaundice itself can be a sign of liver disease or other severe medical conditions, and it requires prompt medical attention.
6. Eye Injury
Trauma to the eye can cause bleeding within the sclera, leading to a condition known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage. While the blood under the conjunctiva is usually bright red, it can turn brown or yellow as it heals.
These spots are generally harmless and resolve independently, but a healthcare provider should assess any significant eye injury.
7. Medications and Toxins
Certain medications and toxins can cause discoloration of the sclera. For example, some medicines used to treat glaucoma can lead to increased pigmentation in the eye.
Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals or toxins can also result in scleral discoloration. If you suspect medication or toxin exposure as a cause, consult your healthcare provider.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many causes of scleral discoloration are benign, it is vital to seek medical attention if you notice any changes in your eye’s appearance. Specifically, you should consult an eye specialist if:
- The pigmentation changes in size, shape, or color.
- You experience any vision changes, such as blurriness or loss of vision.
- There is associated pain, redness, or swelling.
- The discoloration appears suddenly or without a clear cause.
Diagnosis and Treatment
To diagnose the cause of scleral discoloration, an eye specialist will perform a thorough eye examination. This may include visual acuity tests, slit-lamp examinations, and imaging studies such as ultrasound or optical coherence tomography (OCT).
In some cases, a biopsy of the pigmented area may be necessary to rule out malignancy.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For benign conditions like melanosis or nevus, regular monitoring may be sufficient.
Addressing the primary condition is crucial if the discoloration is due to an underlying health issue such as jaundice or an eye injury. Surgical removal or other treatments may be recommended when there is a risk of malignancy.
Conclusion
Noticing white part of your eye turning brown can be concerning, but many causes are benign. Monitoring any changes and seeking medical advice to rule out serious conditions is important.
Regular eye exams and prompt attention to changes in your eye’s appearance are key to maintaining good eye health. After understanding the potential causes and seeking appropriate care, you can ensure that your eyes remain healthy and your vision stays clear.
