deuteranomalyor

Deuteranomaly is a common type of red-green color vision deficiency. It is the most prevalent form of inherited color blindness, affecting approximately 6-8% of males and 0.5% of females. Deuteranomaly is caused by a genetic mutation on the X chromosome that affects the cone cells in the retina, specifically the green cones. These cones are responsible for detecting light in the green spectrum. In individuals with deuteranomaly, the green cones are present but have a shifted spectral sensitivity, meaning they are less sensitive to green light and more sensitive to red light.

This altered sensitivity results in difficulties distinguishing between certain shades of red, green, yellow, and orange. Colors may appear less vibrant or muted. For example, distinguishing between a blue and a purple, or a pink and a gray, can be challenging. The severity of deuteranomaly can vary, with some individuals experiencing only mild difficulties in color perception while others have more significant challenges. It is typically diagnosed through standardized color vision tests, such as the Ishihara plates or the Farnsworth-Munsell 100 Hue test.

Deuteranomaly is an inherited condition and is not curable. However, individuals with deuteranomaly can adapt and learn to identify colors through other cues, such as brightness or context. Specialized filters and lenses can sometimes help to improve color discrimination for some individuals, though they do not restore normal color vision. The condition does not typically affect visual acuity or overall eye health.