Question 1

have you heard of oculocutaneous albinism?

Accepted Answer

Albinism: Loss of natural color of eye and skin.

Question 2

what is oculocutaneous albinism type 4 (oca4)?

Accepted Answer

Hypopigmentation: Oculocutaneous albinism type 4 is characterized by hypopigmentation of the skin and hair plus the characteristic ocular changes found in all other types of albinism.
Individuals with oca4 are usually recognized within the first year of life because of hypopigmentation of the hair and skin and the ocular features of nystagmus and strabismus.

Question 3

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 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

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 7

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 8

can you develop albinism over time, or is it something you have to be born with?

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 9

what are some resources for helping kids with albinism adjust to social situations?

Accepted Answer

Support groups: There albinism support groups that you can join for helpful hints.

Question 10

it could be possible that a carrier of albinism (aa) not show any traits of albinism, but be visually impaired?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Yes--- anybody can be visually impaired with or without albinism trait.

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Doctor answers about:

Albinism oculocutaneous

A member asked:

Have you heard of oculocutaneous albinism?

A member asked:

What is oculocutaneous albinism type 4 (oca4)?

A member asked:

Can albinism be cured?

A member asked:

Are there different types of albinism?

A member asked:

How can i treat partial 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:

Can you develop albinism over time, or is it something you have to be born with?

A member asked:

What are some resources for helping kids with albinism adjust to social situations?

A member asked:

It could be possible that a carrier of albinism (aa) not show any traits of albinism, but be visually impaired?

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