In part I we discussed the various types and causes of albinism, the genetic skin disorder. Here’s more about this common but still misunderstood disorder.
What are the symptoms of albinism?
The symptoms differ according to the type of albinism and may include more than one of the following.
Eye symptoms include
- Decrease in visual acuity
- Irregular and rapid eye movements (nystagmus)
- Functional blindness
- Wandering eyes (strabismus)
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Distortion of the image viewed (astigmatism)
Skin symptoms include
- High risk of sunburn
- Pale skin due to decreased melanin pigment
- White skin due to complete absence of melanin
- Increased risk of skin cancer
Hair symptoms include
- White hair due to complete absence of melanin
- Forelock (lock of hair near forehead) is white
Other symptoms are
- Bleeding tendency
- Susceptibility to infections
- Deafness
- Bowel problems
- Lung problems
- Nervous system disorders
Diagnosis of albinism
A doctor may diagnose this condition by looking at and examining the skin, hair and eyes. Genetic testing is the best way to diagnose albinism. It should be offered to those with a positive family history and to albinos who want to become parents.
An eye examination by the ophthalmologist and performing an electroretinogram test can also reveal eye problems which point to the diagnosis.
Amniocentesis and chorionic villi sampling can diagnose albinism in the foetus of a pregnant woman. Recently a blood test has been developed which can identify carriers of the gene in some types of albinism. Chemical testing of the hair is an easy way to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of albinism
- Albinism has no cure. Ophthalmologists can correct the visual problems and ease the symptoms. To prevent photophobia, wearing dark glasses when outdoors is recommended.
- Your doctor will recommend using sunscreen liberally to avoid getting sunburnt and to protect against premature aging and skin cancer, especially in tropical countries like ours.
- Albinos generally face social problems as there is a stigma attached to the condition. It is a myth that albinos are sterile, in fact they are able to reproduce.
Albinos generally have a normal lifespan unless suffering from lung conditions and bleeding tendency.
Photograph via sxc.hu
