A member asked:

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

4 doctors weighed in across 3 answers

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.

Answered 12/9/2013

5.8k views

Thank

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.

Answered 7/7/2017

5.8k views

Thank
Dr. Vasu Brown answered

Specializes in Integrative Medicine

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.

Answered 4/26/2015

5.8k views

Thank

Related Questions

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: Albinism?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

A member asked:

Will having albinism affect my childs development?

4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

A member asked:

Are there other medical problems associated with albinism?

10 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

A member asked:

Why do individuals affected by albinism have trouble seeing?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

A member asked:

I was just wondering how can you tell if someone has albinism?

A doctor has provided 1 answer