Leukocoria
What is leukocoria?
Leukocoria means "white pupil." It's when the pupil, the round dark part in the middle of the eye, looks white instead of black (See figure 1).
Fig. 1: Leukocoria is when the pupil looks white instead of black.
HOW IS LEUKOCORIA DETECTED?
Sometimes, you can see a white pupil by just looking at a child's eye in bright light. Other times, the pupil might look white in dark rooms or when the child looks in certain directions. You can also spot leukocoria in pictures where a flash makes one pupil white while the other is red. A doctor might find leukocoria during an eye check-up using a special tool called an ophthalmoscope.
WHAT IS A RED REFLEX?
When light goes into the eye, it mostly gets absorbed at the back of the eye but some reflects back, making the pupil look reddish. This is normal and is called the "red reflex." You can usually see it in photos with a flash. If a child has leukocoria, this red light might be missing or look white, because the light does not reflect right. This could be because something is blocking it or there is a problem inside the eye. If a doctor sees an abnormal red reflex, they will send the child to a special eye doctor for a closer look.
HOW DOES AN OPHTHALMOLOGIST DETECT LEUKOCORIA?
Eye doctors use a tool called an ophthalmoscope to look inside the eye. They might also use drops to make the pupil bigger so they can see better inside.
WHAT EYE PROBLEMS CAUSE LEUKOCORIA?
Leukocoria can be caused by many things:
Sometimes, what looks like a problem might turn out to be nothing serious. However, it is always good to have a thorough eye check-up to make sure none of the serious conditions is present.
ARE ANY OF THESE EYE PROBLEMS SERIOUS?
Yes, many conditions that cause leukocoria are serious. Some can affect how well the child sees and others can be life-threatening. It is very important for a child with leukocoria to see an eye doctor right away.
HOW IS LEUKOCORIA TREATED?
The treatment for leukocoria depends on what's causing it. If it's due to cataract, retinal detachment, infection, or something else, the doctor will treat that specific problem.
SUMMARY
This guide helps you understand leukocoria, a condition where the pupil appears white. It covers how to detect it, what might cause it, and why it's important to get treatment right away. Leukocoria can be serious and affect a child's vision or even be life-threatening, so seeing an eye doctor quickly is crucial. This summary aims to give you a quick overview of what to know about leukocoria and encourage seeking prompt medical advice if you notice these signs.
Updated 02/2025
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