sectoral heterochromia

Sun, 03 May 2026 07:31:42 +0000

Understanding Sectoral Heterochromia: A Rare Genetic Eye Anomaly Sectoral heterochromia is a rare and fascinating genetic condition characterized by differing colors or patterns in the irises of one or both eyes. While fully heterochromia—where each eye has a distinct color—is well known, sectoral heterochromia stands out because it features distinct color sectors within the same iris—such as a patch of blue in one sector and brown in another. This unique visual trait draws attention not only for its beauty but also for its genetic and biological significance. ### What Is Sectoral Heterochromia? Heterochromia iridum refers to variations in eye color, and sectoral heterochromia is a specific subtype where color segregation occurs within a single iris. Unlike complete heterochromia, in which an eye is entirely one color, or complete aphakia (missing the colored part), sectoral heterochromia involves one or more concentric or irregular sections displaying different pigments. These sectors may appear as flecks, bands, or patches, creating a captivating marbled or mosaic effect.