Can people with albinism have eye surgery?

Written by Gao Tian
General Surgery
Updated on September 06, 2024
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Generally, it is possible. Because people with albinism have eyes that are more sensitive to light, mainly because albinism affects the sclera and eyeballs, leading to this condition. However, surgery cannot restore the lost pigmentation in the eyeballs, meaning it is impossible to change the alterations on the eyeballs. It is necessary to prevent strong sunlight exposure, and the only option is to wear sunglasses, which can also reduce the stimulation of ultraviolet rays to the eyes, protect the eyes, reduce external damage, and ensure one can live normally as much as possible. Additionally, this type of disease may lead to malignant skin diseases and other issues due to prolonged exposure to sunlight.

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Written by Gao Tian
General Surgery
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Can people with albinism have eye surgery?

Generally, it is possible. Because people with albinism have eyes that are more sensitive to light, mainly because albinism affects the sclera and eyeballs, leading to this condition. However, surgery cannot restore the lost pigmentation in the eyeballs, meaning it is impossible to change the alterations on the eyeballs. It is necessary to prevent strong sunlight exposure, and the only option is to wear sunglasses, which can also reduce the stimulation of ultraviolet rays to the eyes, protect the eyes, reduce external damage, and ensure one can live normally as much as possible. Additionally, this type of disease may lead to malignant skin diseases and other issues due to prolonged exposure to sunlight.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What causes albinism in infants?

Albinism in infants is caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of tyrosinase, leading to a lack of melanin or a synthesis disorder in the skin and its appendages. This inherited form of albinism results in the retina lacking pigment, with the iris and pupils appearing pale pink, and sensitivity to light. The skin, mucous membranes, hair, and other body hair are white or yellowish-white. Albinism is a familial hereditary disease, inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, often occurring in populations with a high rate of consanguineous marriages. In the genetic pedigree of albinism, both parents carry the albinism gene; carriers themselves do not show symptoms but can pass the causative gene to their children, who then manifest the disease.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Does albinism have anything to do with blood type?

Albinism is not related to blood type; it is related to genetics. Albinism is a skin and appendage disorder caused by a deficiency or reduced function of tyrosinase. It is somewhat related to hereditary factors, and also to the lack or synthesis obstruction of melanin. If both parents pass the pathogenic gene they carry to their children, then the children may develop this type of albinism. Ocular albinism is usually an X-linked recessive genetic disorder, mainly transmitted from mothers carrying the albinism gene to their sons, leading to the onset of the disease. Albinism is not directly related to blood type. If albinism occurs, it is advisable to consult and treat at a hospital, and to take preventive measures against the disease before pregnancy.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What should be paid attention to in daily life for albinism?

For those with albinism, it is crucial to avoid sunlight exposure, especially during strong ultraviolet radiation. It’s advisable to minimize going outdoors or use sun-protection tools such as wearing long-sleeved clothing, hats, and sunglasses to reduce direct UV damage to the eyes and skin. For patients with a syndromic type of albinism, once a genetic diagnosis is confirmed, it is essential to inform the doctor about the condition when undergoing dental extractions or major surgeries, so that preventive measures against bleeding can be prepared. Furthermore, patients with albinism must seek genetic counseling and reproductive guidance before marriage and childbirth. If skin lesions are mild in the early stages of albinism, proactive cooperation with medical staff and a diet rich in vitamins are recommended.

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Written by Zhang Jian Bo
Dermatology
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Vitiligo is what kind of disease?

Albinism is a congenital hereditary skin disease, which primarily manifests as the pigment loss or localized, or complete depigmentation of the skin, hair, and eyes. Clinically, it can be categorized into localized albinism and generalized albinism. The onset of the disease may be significantly related to defects in certain genes, hence it has a strong genetic component. Its manifestation includes whitening of the skin and hair, as well as loss of pigment in the eyes. Due to the lack of pigment, symptoms may include photophobia, tearing, and a decrease in vision. Currently, there are no particularly effective treatments for albinism. The main approach includes avoiding light exposure and applying sunblocks and ointments to prevent the occurrence of skin tumors.