Monokromatismi

Monokromatismi is a term used to describe either artistic practices that rely on a single color or channel, or medical conditions in which color perception is markedly limited. The word combines a prefix meaning one with chroma, from Greek for color. In art and design, monokromatismo refers to a monochromatic palette—variations derived from one hue, including black-and-white works that use only grayscale values. In clinical contexts, the term denotes forms of color vision deficiency in which only one visual channel remains functional.

In the arts, monochromatic works pursue unity and mood through a single hue or a restricted range of values. Artists may use a single color with variations in lightness and saturation, or adopt grayscale, which is often treated as a specific case of monochrome. The approach emphasizes form, texture, and composition over a full-color spectrum and is common in modern and minimalist movements.

In ophthalmology, monokromatismi refers to conditions where color vision is severely limited because only one type of photoreceptor remains functional. The main forms are achromatopsia (rod monochromacy), cone monochromacy, and blue cone monochromacy. Achromatopsia involves nonfunctional cones and results in grayscale vision, reduced acuity, nystagmus, and light sensitivity. Cone monochromacy means only one type of cone works, producing diminished color discrimination. Blue cone monochromacy is a specific form where only S-cones are functional, typically with X-linked inheritance. These conditions are usually genetic, present in childhood, and current treatments focus on visual rehabilitation and environmental adaptations; there is no cure to restore normal color vision.