ALBINISM
Common Name: Hypopigmentation and Achromasia
- Albinism is caused by gene mutations.
- This mutation occurs on the X chromosome.
- There are prenatal tests that can be used to identify Albinism.
- The symptoms of this genetic disorder are light skin, eyes, and hair, having parts of skin that are lighter colors, and the lack of pigment in skin color.
- This genetic disorder can affect all races.
- One in 17,000 people have Albinism.
- Anyone who's parents carry the genes for Albinism can be a candidate for the disorder.
- It is a sex-linked and recessive disease.
- An Albino child will not need severe medical assistance.
- People who are affected by this should limit their time in the sun because their skin will be sensitive to it.
- Most types of Albinism do not determine the length of a child's life.
- No cures or treatments exist for Albinism.
- However, it is a good idea for people who have this disorder to wear sunglasses and lots of clothing when they are going to be in the sun.
- This disorder is not one that can be prevented.
- Albino people can have children. The disease does not prevent them from this.
- The gene for Albinism is passed down through generations.
- Albinism is not a clinical diagnosis. Doctors are currently trying to figure out more about what causes this.
- There is not a new treatment coming for this disorder because it cannot be cured.
- The different forms of albinism include: Griscelli Syndrome, Chediak- Higashi Syndrome, Hermansky- Pudlack Syndrome, Ocular Albinism, and Oculocutaneous Albinism.
- Albinism can cause skin disorders as well as major emotional problems.