National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Oculocutaneous albinism

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My child has vision issues and a skin condition, which has been diagnosed as oculocutaneous albinism.  Are there things I need to know about this condition other than keeping my daughter's skin covered?
Individuals with oculocutaneous albinism should have annual skin examinations to check for skin damage or skin cancer and annual eye examination to check vision.  Affected individuals should cover their skin from sun exposure by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing such as long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and hats with wide brims.  Glasses may be worn to reduce sensitivity to bright light or to improve vision.  Additional therapies or surgery may be used to treat crossed eyes (strabismus) or rapid eye movements (nystagmus).[1][2][3]
Last updated: 10/15/2012

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  1. Albinism. MedlinePlus. November 2011; http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001479.htm. Accessed 10/15/2012.
  2. Lewis RA. Oculocutaneous Albinism Type 2. GeneReviews. August 2012; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1232/. Accessed 10/15/2012.
  3. King RA. Oculocutaneous Albinism Type 1. GeneReviews. October 2004; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1166/. Accessed 10/15/2012.