Symptoms of albinism

At the level of the skin

In the most severe forms, the diagnosis is usually obvious from birth: the skin is pinkish white, the hair and hairs snow-white or even blond.

In less severe forms, the hair is blond and darkens after a few months, gradually turning light brown in adolescence.

We have seen that the most frequent forms, in particular “Tyrosinase positive”, could see freckles, brown spots and moles appear during childhood.

The skin is very sensitive to UV rays: in the absence of sun protection, skin cancers appear.

At eye level

In the most severe forms, the irises are bluish gray, translucent, therefore appearing red (we see the retina through). Babies can’t stand light and often have squint. Visual acuity is severely impaired.

In less severe forms, the irises are blue, orange-yellow or even light brown. Visual acuity is less impaired.

Risk factors

Albinism is a genetic disease. The only risk factor is therefore heridity. Mutations are more frequent in Africa.

Our doctor’s opinion

It should be borne in mind that patients with albinism, even if they are often visually impaired, have perfectly normal physical and intellectual development. It is therefore very important to notify the teaching team from Kindergarten so that the child can attend normal schooling.

In addition, we sometimes encounter a bad understanding or a bad compliance of the entourage during the occurrence of albinism on black skin, because the close family (parents, siblings …), the cousins ​​with whom the child plays have no never used to protect themselves from the sun, you should ask them to play indoors with the affected child instead …

Dr. Ludovic Rousseau, dermatologist

Treatment and care for albinism

There is currently no effective gene therapy for abinism. The only treatment is therefore sun protection to avoid carcinogenic risks: seek shade and protect the skin and eyes from the sun by using covering clothing, hats, glasses and sun creams with a high index on the sun. uncovered areas.

Regular monitoring by a dermatologist and an ophthalmologist is desirable throughout life.