A coloboma is when normal tissue in or around the eye is missing at birth. A coloboma can affect different parts of the eye. The symptoms of coloboma on the front of the eye will be visually noticeable as the pupil and eyelid will look different. Coloboma inside the eye can cause vision loss. Coloboma is believed to be genetic (passed from parent to child) and can be diagnosed during an eye exam by an ophthalmologist.

Treatment for coloboma depends on the type and location of the coloboma. Treatment can include colored contact lenses and surgery. Low vision devices can help patients with decreased vision due to coloboma.