Albinism - Causes, Types And Symptoms

Pigment is responsible for producing color in our body. When a person has albinism, pigment cannot be produced in his body. It is hereditary and passed from parent to child. There is also reduction of pigment in hair, skin and eyes.

Types of Albinism

There are two types of albinism and both the types cause vision problem. The first type is called oculocutaneous albinism or OCA. The second type is called ocular albinism. The first type causes decreased pigment in hair, eye and skin. The second type mainly affects the eye. The hair and skin looks normal. Children with ocular albinism have normal appearance and there is no difference. The primary symptom of albinism is eye problem.

Causes of Albinism

Genetic mutation is the cause of albinism. The mutation affects melanin production, which protect skin from UV rays. It is also important for proper eye development. The optic nerve and retina do not develop properly if there is inadequate melanin.

Symptoms of Albinism

Some of the symptoms of albinism are: sensitivity to bright light, monocular vision, optic nerve problem, Iris problem, foveal hypoplasia, refractive errors, strabismus and nystagmus. People having albinism can also have vision impairment. Near vision is better compared to distance vision. Generally people with less pigment have poor vision.