Why Do the Whites of My Eyes Have a Blue Tint?
Blue sclera, a bluish or purplish tint found in the white portion of the eyes, most commonly indicates a condition called osteogenesis imperfecta, or OI, which is a congenital disease that prevents the body from producing type I collagen, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The blue tint is caused by thin or transparent scleral collagen found within the eye.
In osteogenesis imperfecta, the body fails to produce type I collagen, a component that helps form bone, connective tissues, teeth and the white part of the eye or sclera, says the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Other symptoms of the disease include multiple fractures, short stature, breathing problems, hearing loss, brittle teeth and bone deformities. While there are many types of osteogenesis imperfecta, some of them deadly, more than 60 percent of all cases are of the mild type.
There is no cure for osteogenesis imperfecta, but there are several treatment courses available, including medication, immobilization through the use of a cast or sling and targeted exercise for increased mobility and bone strength. In some cases, surgical intervention is necessary to heal and prevent bone fractures or to reduce bone deformities, notes the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
