What causes Coloboma?
Although no specific pattern has been identified there appears to be a strong hereditary factor in the incidence of this condition, which is sometimes linked to chromosomal disorders. During the first three months of pregnancy, the eyes of the foetus are developing quickly, starting as a small bud which then sprouts out so that all the intricate parts of the inside of the eye can be formed and nourished. To aid this nourishment a gap, known as the foetal cleft, opens on the underside of each bud. When the intricate development of the eye is completed, the gap closes but in some cases the gap either does not close or closes only partially and such gaps will remain throughout life. This gap is Coloboma. This does not mean that there is a hole in the eye, just that certain structures within the eye do not fully form. What are the effects of Coloboma? The effects of the condition can be mild or severe and this will depend upon the extent and location of the gap (or incomplete closure). The
