Home > Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders > Albinism

Definition

Albinism is an inherited condition that causes a lack of pigment in the hair, skin, or eyes.

Description

People with albinism typically have white or pale yellow hair, pale skin, and light blue or gray eyes. Since their irises have little pigment, their eyes may appear pink or violet in different types of light. This is because light is being reflected from the reddish part of the retina in the back of the eye. Their skin usually does not tan and their eyes are often sensitive to light. Many have trouble with vision. Some children may be born with albinism, but develop some pigmentation as they grow older.

In albinism, the body does not produce enough of a pigment called melanin, which creates hair, skin, and eye color. Melanin protects the body by absorbing the sun's...