Albinism- minimal pigment type

Synonyms

1

Overview

A rare inherited disorder characterized by a total lack of pigmentation at birth. However, during the first decade of life, some pigmentation does develop in the eyes. The disorder is believed to be a part of a disorder called oculocutaneous albinism type 1B.

Symptoms

  • Blue iris
  • Grey iris
  • Iris translucency
  • White hair at birth
  • No skin pigment at birth
  • No eye pigments at birth
  • Small amount of eye pigmentation develops by ten years of age

Diagnosis

Albinism is present at birth, and it is usually diagnosed based on the infant's appearance. If necessary, genetic testing can be done to confirm a diagnosis, but this is not routinely done

Treatment

There is no treatment or cure for albinism. Since individuals with albinism have little or no melanin in their skin, they need to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear adequate clothing when outside to prevent ultraviolet-induced damage to the skin

Resources

  • NIH