Hazel Eyes vs. Central Heterochromia: What’s the Difference?

hazel eyes vs central heterochromia

Similar to snowflakes, each human eye has its own unique and intricate iris pattern. Melanin content, melanin dispersal, and how light scatters throughout the eye (Rayleigh Scattering) determine eye color. Inspect your eyes using a mirror in natural lighting, wearing a white shirt in front of a white backdrop.

If you see more than one color, you may wonder if your eyes are hazel or if you have heterochromia. What are Hazel’s eyes, what is central heterochromia, and what’s the difference? Read on to know more about hazel eyes vs. central heterochromia.

Hazel Eyes

Hazel

With their exact color seeming to change in different lighting or clothing, hazel eyes are considered mysterious. Hazel eyes are a mixture of green, gold, and brown, setting them apart from the solid coloring of amber or green eyes.

Most often seen in Spanish, Brazillian, Middle Eastern, and North African descent, some celebrities with hazel eyes include Jada Pinkett Smith, Sofia Vergara, and Rashida Jones.

Central Heterochromia

Heterochromia

Image source: Pinterest

Heterochromia derives from the greek “hetero,” meaning different, and “chromia,” meaning color. Types of heterochromia include complete, segmental, and central, each defined by the appearance of two contrasting eye colors.

In central heterochromia, a ring of color in the center of the eye surrounding the pupil is different from the rest of the iris. For example, a person with green or blue eyes may have a ring of gold in the center of the iris around their pupil. Celebrities with heterochromia include Kate Bosworth, Mila Kunis, and Olivia Wilde.

How Are Hazel Eyes and Central Heterochromia Different?

The difference between hazel eyes and central heterochromia is the distribution of melanin (the pigment that gives eyes their color) throughout the iris. Hazel eyes may have a mixture of colors, but these colors all blend while moving outward from the pupil.

Under different circumstances, hazel eyes even appear to change color. In contrast, central heterochromia causes a constant ring of color around the pupil that is drastically different from the rest of the iris. Moreover, hazel is considered a normal eye color, while central heterochromia is a medical condition.

Which Is More Common?

Common

Image source: Pinterest

Heterochromia is sporadic, with less than 200,000 people in the United States experiencing complete heterochromia. Researchers are uncertain of the rarity of the central heterochromia, as, with its relatively normal appearance, it can be challenging to document.

However, the rarity of other types of heterochromia suggests it is rare as well. Hazel eyes are also rare, found in only about 5% of the population.

What Causes Central Heterochromia?

Vast differences in melanin distribution create central heterochromia. While the exact cause of central heterochromia is still unknown, it often randomly happens at birth.

When central heterochromia appears as a genetic trait, it’s typically linked to an underlying congenital disease like Horner’s syndrome. Central heterochromia that appears later in life can indicate medical complications such as injuries, diabetes, or infection.

How Is Central Heterochromia Diagnosed?

Diagnose

Image source: Pinterest

Central heterochromia is usually harmless and does not need a diagnosis. However, central heterochromia occurring later in life or as a genetic trait could indicate underlying health conditions or complications and requires a doctor’s attention.

An optometrist or ophthalmologist will complete a comprehensive eye examination consisting of a visual test and inspection of the optic nerve, peripheral vision, pupils, and eye pressure.

Occasionally the doctor will order an OCT or optical coherence tomography (a non-invasive eye imaging test) or blood tests and chromosome studies for those with genetic heterochromia.

Is Central Heterochromia Treatable?

The underlying cause determines the need for medical treatment and the treatment route. Usually, central heterochromia is a benign condition and does not require treatment. However, those with acquired and genetic heterochromias should seek a physician as the condition could be a symptom of a significant problem that needs treatment.

For cosmetic concerns, using colored contact lenses can correct differences in eye color.

Amie has a love for numbers and holds a master’s degree in finance. When she’s not playing with numbers or words or pottering in the garden, you can find her in the kitchen roasting her own coffee beans.

Related Posts

Hormone Replacement

Hormone Replacement Therapies Shaping Sculpted Bodies in Recognized Health Establishments

In the ever-evolving fitness and wellness landscape, hormone replacement therapies have emerged as a dynamic tool wielded by recognized health establishments to sculpt and transform bodies. Beyond traditional fitness regimens,…

Read more
Medical Negligence

7 Common Examples of Medical Negligence

Everyone wishes to live a healthy and problem-free life. Unfortunately, sometimes we have to face the scariest situations due to medical negligence. Medical negligence occurs if a medical professional or…

Read more
Treadmill Exercise for Seniors

Treadmill Exercise for Seniors: Tips, Benefits, and Workouts

Treadmills have become more than just a fitness trend. They’ve evolved into an invaluable tool for seniors looking to maintain their health and stay active. In this guide, you’ll explore…

Read more
Cold & Flu

Common Cold & Flu Care: 5 Tips for Supporting Your Child

If you’re a parent during the cold season, that can mean sleepless nights caring for a sick little one. When your child comes down with the common cold or flu,…

Read more
assessing body's iron levels from home

The Iron Test: Assessing Your Body’s Iron Levels from Home

Maintaining optimal iron levels is crucial for overall health and well-being. Iron plays a vital role in transporting oxygen throughout the body, supporting energy production, and aiding in the proper…

Read more
lost mary mad blue vape middle age

Is The Lost Mary Mad Blue Vape A Good Choice For Middle Age Vapers?

Mad Blue Lost Mary Vape is an e-liquid that promises to deliver a combination of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries with a hint of menthol. If you’re a middle-aged vaper and…

Read more