Question 1

what exactly is albinism? is it a genetic or disorder or a chromosomal abnormality?

Accepted Answer

Biological inheritan: Most forms of albinism are the result of the biological inheritance of genetically recessive alleles (genes) passed from both parents of an individual, though some rare forms are inherited from only one parent. There are other genetic mutations which are proven to be associated with albinism. All alterations, however, lead to changes in melanin production in the body.

Question 2

can albinism be cured?

Accepted Answer

No: Albinism is a genetic pigmentary disorder.  The genetic defect that affects enzymes that are involving in pigment (melanin) production or distributive pathways.  With this condition, it is absolutely imperative to use sunscreen/block, sunglasses, and sun protective clothing to prevent uv induced damages.

Question 3

could albinism be prenatally detected?

Accepted Answer

Yes for most types: Several varieties of albinism exist, and prenatal diagnosis is available for most of them.

Question 4

are there different types of albinism?

Accepted Answer

Albinos: Albinism is a defect in the genetics related to pigment production in the skin, eyes and some other parts of the body.  Some have a complete lack of this gene; others a partial in less effective gene and so they are less pale and have fewer of the complications.  A genetic specialist can work this out for you if you have one of these conditions.

Question 5

how can i treat partial albinism?

Accepted Answer

Not reversible: For this inherited condition you can only protect the skin and eyes.  Use sunglasses, stay out of direct sunlight, use sunblock skin cream which you have to exposure yourself to the sun, use common sense.  There is no treatment to reverse the condition.

Question 6

why does albinism cause nystagmus?

Accepted Answer

Nystagmus: Nystagmus results when blindness occurs before four years of age.  Many people with oculocutaneous albinism  fall into this category.

Question 7

what are some prenatal tests for albinism?

Accepted Answer

Depends: Testing depends on the type of albinism. Please check this website out - http://www.Ncbi.Nlm.Nih.Gov/sites/genetests/lab/disease/albinism?Db=genetests&search_param=contains.

Question 8

what is the definition or description of: partial albinism?

Accepted Answer

Lack of pigment: Partial albinism is either spotty depigmented or intermittent larger ares with other skin ok

Question 9

can you develop albinism as you age do you have to be born with it?

Accepted Answer

Albinism vs vitiligo: If you are born with a genetic mutation that prevents production of melanin (and other pigments), then you are an albino and have albinism. If you begin to lose pigment (typically in patches) as you age, then you likely have vitiligo (e.g. Michael jackson), which is a skin condition where the pigment-producing cells die for various reasons.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/vitiligo/ds00586.

Question 10

is it possible for people to have red irises without having albinism?

Accepted Answer

Red iris: In albinism, the iris is not really read, it is just extremely depigmented.  Thus, you can see the redness of the interior of the eye (retina, choroid) through the iris as though it were transparent. Anything causing a transparent, depigmented iris would give the same appearance. Off hand, the lack of iris (aniridia) would also look this way. Also, after trauma or some surgeries of the eye.

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Doctor answers about:

Albinism chromosome

A member asked:

What exactly is albinism? is it a genetic or disorder or a chromosomal abnormality?

A member asked:

Can albinism be cured?

A member asked:

Could albinism be prenatally detected?

A member asked:

Are there different types of albinism?

A member asked:

How can i treat partial albinism?

A member asked:

Why does albinism cause nystagmus?

A member asked:

What are some prenatal tests for albinism?

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: partial albinism?

A member asked:

Can you develop albinism as you age do you have to be born with it?

A member asked:

Is it possible for people to have red irises without having albinism?

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