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July 22, 2022: Aniridia

Aniridia is a congenital rare vision impairment which hinders the development of the iris, the colored part of the eye.  Every case is different; the iris may be partially formed or not present.  This affects sharp central vision and results in sensitivity to light.  Some also have increased eye pressure, which can lead to glaucoma. The lens of the eye may cloud, forming cataracts, or the cornea may be damaged. Scientists say, “Aniridia may be caused by genetic changes in the PAX6 gene and is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.”  To learn more, please visit https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/5816/aniridia.