Introduction to Albinism

About one in every 17,000 people have Albinism. These individuals fail to produce melanin, a photoprotective pigment. While melanin's role in protecting us from ultraviolet light is understood, it also has other important functions in the development of the retina and brain and their interconnection of which we know much less.

Macular Hypoplasia: The fovea a tiny area in the center of the macula region of the retina, the most sensitive area of vision in the retina fails to fully develop.

Iris Color and Transillumination: The pigmentation of iris and choroid may be lacking causing light to penetrate directly through the structures of the eye rather than only through the pupil. In some cases the iris may be pink.

Skin and Hair Hypopigmentation: Hair and eyelashes may be under pigmented. In ocular albinism, the hair and skin pigmentation may not be effected.

Nystagmus, a jerky motion to the eyes is usually present.

Strabismus: Often the eyes may not work together as a binocular team. An eye may cross in or turn out.

Brain Retina Connections: The pathways from the retina to brain may follow different pathways than in non-albinos.

A special thanks to Andrea, Steve and Teresa and their parents for allowing us to use their photographs.

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