Cyclopia facts for kids

Cyclopia is a very rare birth defect. It happens when a baby's brain doesn't fully separate into two halves. This means the eyes don't form normally. Instead of two separate eyes, there might be one eye in the middle of the face. The nose might also be missing or not fully formed.

This condition is named after the Cyclops. In Greek mythology, a Cyclops was a giant with only one eye in the middle of its forehead.

What Causes Cyclopia?

Cyclopia can happen for different reasons. Sometimes, it's due to genetic factors. This means it's linked to the instructions found in a person's DNA.

Other times, it can be caused by exposure to certain substances. For example, some chemicals or medicines can affect a baby's development during pregnancy. However, this is very rare in humans.

How Does Cyclopia Affect Development?

The brain part that doesn't separate is called the prosencephalon. This part is important for forming the front of the brain and face. When it doesn't split, the eye sockets (called orbits) also don't separate. This leads to the single, central eye.

Because the brain and face don't develop properly, babies born with cyclopia often have other serious health problems. Sadly, most babies with cyclopia do not survive for long after birth.

Cyclopia in Animals

Cyclopia can also happen in animals. It has been seen in many different species. These include pigs, cats, cows, and even sharks. Just like in humans, it is a very rare condition in animals too.

Scientists study cyclopia in animals to learn more about how it happens. This helps them understand brain and facial development.

Images for kids

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  A 4-month-old foal from Rovigo with cyclopia, from 1775.

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  A Pig with cyclopia, found in Martinique, from 1775.

See also