ALBINISM By Caelan Dean Tristan Hoskinson WHAT IS

ALBINISM By Caelan Dean & Tristan Hoskinson

WHAT IS ALBINISM? Albinism is an inherited condition that is present at birth. Albinos are recognized by the lack of color in their skin, hair and eyes. Various types of albinism exist, all of which involve a lack of pigment in varying degrees.

SCIENTIFICALLY, ALBINISM IS… The disease is characterized by a lack of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. The most common type of albinism is called oculocutaneous albinism, which affects the eyes, hair, and skin.

WHAT CAUSES IT? Albinism is inherited and caused by an alteration in the genes that are responsible for directing the eyes and skin to produce and distribute melanin, which is a pigment that colors the skin.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? All albinos are characterized by extremely light skin and a lack of coloration in the hair and eyes. Some albinos may have poor eyesight, constant and involuntary eye movement, reduced depth perception, and a heightened sensitivity to light. Because of these symptoms, it is not uncommon for someone with albinism to develop a fear of light known as photophobia.

CURE/TREATMENT OF THE DISEASE There is no cure for albinism. . Treatment may include: Using protective clothing and glasses to shield the skin from UV rays. prescription eyeglasses to correct vision problems. surgery on the muscles of the eyes to correct abnormal eye movements.

WHAT’S THE WORST THAT COULD HAPPEN? In severe cases, the hair and skin can remain completely white throughout life. The condition may lead to eye problems such as abnormal eye movements and sensitivity to bright light. Over time, it is rare but possible for the disease to develop into skin cancer.

SOME OTHER FACTS ABOUT ALBINISM… Albinism is not exclusive to humans; it can be found in most animals such as deer, birds, penguins, whales, giraffes, snakes and more. People with albinism, on average, tend to live longer than those who do not have the condition. 1 in 17, 000 people are affected by albinism to some extreme. They must get the albino gene from both parents in order for it to appear.

WORKS CITED http: //www. albinism. org/publications/what_is_albinis m. html http: //www. myinterestingfacts. com/albinism-facts/ http: //www. nytimes. com/health/guides/disease/albin ism/overview. html