Albinism is a rare genetic disorder where you aren’t born with the usual amount of melanin pigment. Melanin is a chemical in your body that determines the color of your skin, hair and eyes. Most people with albinism have very pale skin, hair and eyes. They are prone to sunburn and skin cancer. Melanin also is involved in optical nerve development, so you may have vision problems.
Albinism can affect people of all races and all ethnic groups. In the U.S., about one in every 18,000 to 20,000 people has some type of albinism. In other parts of the world, the ratio is one in every 3,000 people.
What are the symptoms of albinism?
People with albinism may experience the following symptoms:
Your healthcare provider may do a physical exam and examine your skin, hair and eyes. However, a genetic test will provide the most accurate results and help determine which gene is mutated. This DNA test will help determine which type of albinism you have.
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