What is Ocular albinism?

Albinism is a rare inherited condition. People with Albinism do not produce sufficient melanin (pigment) and this affects their eyes, skin and hair.​

The two main forms of Albinism are called Occulocutaneous Albinism, and Ocular Albinism.

Oculocutaneous Albinism (OCA)

Affects the eyes, hair and skin and there are two more common types that vary according to how much melanin the person is able to make.

​Ocular Albinism (OA)

In Ocular Albinism, it is the eyes that are affected in the same way as for OCA. The skin and hair usually appears the same as is normal for the race of the person or slightly paler. Usually OA only affects boys and is inherited from the mother. New studies have shown that some people have a more mild form of Albinism with some of the eye, hair and skin features but not others. Visual problems caused by subtle forms of Albinism seem to be far more common than previously thought (and are quite common in relatives of people with more obvious forms of albinism).

You can find out more about Albinism on the Albinism Fellowship website.

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