What are Anophthalmia and Microphthalmia?

Anophthalmia and microphthalmia are birth defects of a baby’s eye(s). Anophthalmia is a birth defect where a baby is born without one or both eyes. Microphthalmia is a birth defect in which one or both eyes did not develop fully, so they are small. Anophthalmia and microphthalmia develop during pregnancy and can occur alone, with other birth defects, or as part of a syndrome. Anophthalmia and microphthalmia often result in blindness or limited vision.

Content provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For information and references about anophthalmia and microphthalmia, please visit Facts about Anophthalmia and Microphthalmia | CDC ​.

Rates of Anopthalmia and Micropthalmia: 2018–20​

Overall​

By Age

​By Race and Ethnicity

*Per 10,000 live births

**No cases in 2018–20

Data Source: California Birth Defects Monitoring Program Registry, 2018-2020, California 10-County Catchment Area (Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Merced, Orange, San Diego, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Tulare)

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