AlbinismKyndal Pistotnik, Ashli Ellerman, Paige Schlitter

Description

• Albinism is the condition of people who have little to no pigment in their eyes, skin, or hair.

Scientific Description

• Albinism is a mutation in one of several genes. The mutation may result in no melanin at all or a significant decline in the amount of melanin

Other Signs

• Signs of albinism are usually, but not always, indicated in skin, eye, and hair color. However, all patients infected with the disease will experience vision problems. Albinism is usually detected in infancy, however, changes in physical appearance can occur overtime.

Cause

• Albinism is caused by a mutation in one of several genes that are involved in the production of melanin. A mutation in the gene could result in little to no melanin, causing the stereotypical appearance.

Treatment

• For eyesight they need to wear prescription lenses. Although surgery is rarely part of treatment for albinism, an ophthalmologist may recommend surgery on optical muscles to minimize nystagmus. Surgery to correct strabismus may make the condition less noticeable, but it won't improve vision.

• A doctor should conduct an annual assessment of their skin to screen for skin cancer or lesions that can lead to cancer. Adults with albinism need annual eye and skin exams throughout their lives

Treatment Cont.

Use low vision aids, such as a hand-held magnifying glass, a monocular or a magnifier that attaches to glasses.Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 that protects against both UVA and UVB light.Avoid high-risk sun exposure, such as being outside in the middle of the day, at high altitudes, and on sunny days with thin cloud cover.Wear protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants and broad-rimmed hats.Protect eyes by wearing dark, UV-blocking sunglasses or transition lenses that darken in bright light.

Worst Case Scenario

• Albinos have a much higher risk of getting skin cancer• There are social risks like teasing, and isolation. Many

kids get made fun of and are made to feel like outsiders• Albinos in other countries like Africa are killed and

tortured because of their skin color• Albinos are also more susceptible to sun burns as well

Facts

• It is estimated that only 1/17,000 experience albinism.

• A person with albinism must inherit the gene from both parents.

• People from all cultures and races can be affected by albinism.

Sources

• http://www.albinism.org/publications/what_is_albinism.html

• http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/problems/medical/albinism2.htm

• http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/albinism/basics/definition/con-20029935

• http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001479.htm