Albinism

  =//__Albinism __//= //__What is it?__// Albinism is a genetic disease that causes a loss in pigment in the skin, eyes, and hair.

//__How is it inherited?__// Albinism is an autosomal recessive disease. It can also be caused by a defect in melanin production or the P gene.

//__What are the symptoms?__// Albinism causes white or pink hair, skin, and/or eyes. It also sometimes causes vision problems.

//__How is it diagnosed?__// Albinism is usually diagnosed by just looking at the person because most albinism is visible. Some albinism, however, is not visible and must be diagnosed by looking at the retina. If it has no color, the person has albinism.

//__Prognosis:__// People with albinism can expect to live a normal lifespan. However, many people with albinism have social problems because of a lack of understanding by other people.

//__How is it treated?__// There is no treatment for the absence of color caused by albinism. The eye problems sometimes caused by albinism can usually be treated with glasses.

//__Facts:__//
 * One in every 17000 people has albinism.
 * The disease is found equally in every race.

//__Sources: __// [|//http://www.albinism.org/publications/what_is_albinism.html//] [|//http://www.myoptumhealth.com/portal/ADAM/item/Albinism//] [|www.lowvision.org/albinism.htm] []