Oculocutaneous albinism: epidemiology, genetics, skin manifestation, and psychosocial issues

Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a group of rare, inherited disorders associated with reduced melanin biosynthesis. Clinical manifestations of the eight known subtypes of OCA include hypopigmented skin, eyes, and hair and ocular manifestations, such as decreased visual acuity and nystagmus. OCA affe...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Archives of dermatological research 2023-03, Vol.315 (2), p.107-116
Main Authors: Ma, Emily Z., Zhou, Albert E., Hoegler, Karl M., Khachemoune, Amor
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Acuity
Albinism
Albinism - genetics
Albinism, Oculocutaneous - epidemiology
Albinism, Oculocutaneous - genetics
Albinism, Oculocutaneous - therapy
Dermatology
Epidemiology
Hereditary diseases
Humans
Medicine
Medicine & Public Health
Melanin
Quality of Life
Review
Skin cancer
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Summary:Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a group of rare, inherited disorders associated with reduced melanin biosynthesis. Clinical manifestations of the eight known subtypes of OCA include hypopigmented skin, eyes, and hair and ocular manifestations, such as decreased visual acuity and nystagmus. OCA affects people globally but is most prevalent in African countries. Individuals with oculocutaneous albinism lack UV protection and are prone to skin damage and skin cancers. For many African albino individuals, there are significant challenges in seeking treatment for skin cancer and preventing sun damage due to psychosocial factors and poor education. This review summarizes the current understanding of the epidemiology, genetics, and clinical manifestations of OCA. We also discuss the medical and psychosocial challenges that affect individuals with OCA and the current landscape of albinism treatment modalities. The extent of the psychosocial challenges needs to be better understood and additional educational interventions may improve quality of life for people with albinism.
ISSN:1432-069X
0340-3696
1432-069X
DOI:10.1007/s00403-022-02335-1