#asktheexpert My daughter is 2yr old and she has small black dots in white portion of eye.Is it Ok?

Question

Accepted Answer

Small black dots in the white portion (sclera) of the eye in a 2-year-old can be caused by several factors. While it's not uncommon for some children to have small pigmented spots in their eyes, it's essential to consider the following:

1. **Melanosis or Nevus**: These are small, benign pigmented spots in the sclera or on the surface of the eye. They are usually harmless and similar to freckles on the skin.

2. **Foreign Body or Debris**: Sometimes, small particles like dust or debris can settle in the eye and appear as black dots. These usually resolve on their own or can be removed with gentle eye irrigation.

3. **Infection or Inflammation**: In rare cases, spots in the eye could indicate an underlying infection or inflammation. If the spots are accompanied by redness, discharge, or swelling, it could be a sign of an infection.

4. **Pterygium or Pinguecula**: These are growths that can appear on the sclera and may have some pigmentation. They are typically non-cancerous but should be monitored by a doctor.

If the spots are new, changing in size or shape, or accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, irritation, tearing, or vision changes, it's important to consult an ophthalmologist (eye specialist) or a pediatrician. They can perform a thorough examination to determine if any treatment is necessary or if the spots are benign.