Albinism is a genetic mutation caused by a recessive gene that results in little to no melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. It causes pale skin, white hair, eye problems like sensitivity to light and poor vision. Albinism is present at birth and lifelong, with no cure or prevention other than protecting the skin from sun exposure and treating eye issues. It can affect any race or gender.

1. ALBINISM
An African Mother and Her Albino Baby

2. CAUSES
 Genetic Mutation
 Recessive Inherited
Gene
 Pale skin is caused by
no melanin pigment in
the skin
 Eye color is caused by
lack of melanin

3. GENETICS
 If the mother and father both have recessive albino
genes, there is a chance the child could be albino.
 It is a mutation in the genetic makeup

4. WHO GETS IT?
 Any race or gender can
get albinism
 It is more common in
males
 Animals can even have
it
Albino Lion
Normal Camel
and Albino Calf

5. INCUBATION PERIOD
There is no incubation period. If someone has
albinism, they are born with it. The disease never
goes away.
Albino Squirrel

6. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
 Pale skin
 White hair
 Eye problems
 Translucent iris and
retina, causing the eye
to have a blue color.
More rare than blue,
there is pink or red.

7. DETECTION
 Observation, for many
signs are obvious
 An eye test
 A DNA test to look for
the mutation
Albino Child and Creepy Family
Albino Turtle

8. EFFECTS TO THE BODY
 Due to the lack of
melanin in the skin,
there is no protection
from the sun
 Skin can easily get
burned
 Extremely poor vision
 Light sensitive
 Fovea forms incorrectly
from lack of melanin
 May cause nystagmus
 Optic nerves grow
incorrectly
Skin Eyes

9. PROGNOSIS & TREATMENT
 There is no prevention
from Albinism, since
the person is born with
it.
 The skin can be
protected by sunscreen
and careful sun
exposure.
 Eye muscle surgery
 Eyeglasses or contacts
 Eye patch to help
strengthen the muscles
Skin Eyes