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albinism (al´bĭ-niz-әm)   any of numerous hereditary disorders in which there is defective pigmentation in the eyes and skin, causing hypomelanosis and eye disorders. adj., albinot´ic., adj.
 

ocular albinism  a type usually transmitted as an X-linked trait, manifested only in males. Individuals usually have normal skin coloration but a variety of eye problems owing to defective or absent function of the enzyme tyrosinase; they suffer from photophobia because their eyes do not have the usual protection from sunlight.

oculocutaneous albinism  a type usually inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, in which individuals have very pale skin and hair, as well as problems in the eyes because of lack of pigment in the retinas and irises; they run the risk of skin carcinoma, as well as eye damage.





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