Griscelli syndrome
Definition
Griscelli syndrome is a rare, sometimes fatal disorder that associates partial albinism with immunodeficiency. Partial albinism is characterized by a partial lack of melanin (pigment) in the eyes, hair, and skin. The partial albinism found in patients with Griscelli syndrome is caused by an abnormal melanosome distribution. Immunodeficiency refers to an immune system in which restance to infection is lowered.
Description
In addition to having silvery hair, most people with Griscelli syndrome develop hemophagocytic syndrome, which causes some blood cells in the body to engulf and destroy other blood cells. Hemophagocytic syndrome leads to death unless the patient undergoes a bone marrow transplant.
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