Sunday, May 22, 2011

Albinism Treatment

Albinism is a genetic disorder and defined as a group of genetic disorders, causes small or no production of the pigment named melanin. The type and the quantity of melanin produces in the body decides the color of the skin, eyes and hairs. Usually the people suffering from albinism are hypersensitive to sun exposure and they are at high risk of developing skin cancer.


Melanin also plays a vital role in the development of optical nerves. All types of albinism create problems with the development and power of the eyes. Even though there's no remedy for albinism, people with the albinism can take actions to improve vision and prevent them from much sun exposure.

Treatment options

The aim of the treatment is to relieve symptoms. Treatment counts on the type of the disorder.
Treatment includes defending the skin and eyes from the sun:
  • Decrease sunburn risk by preventing the sun, using sunscreen, and warping up completely with clothes when exposed to the sun.
  • Sunscreen should have a high sun protection factor (SPF).
  • Sunglasses (UV protected) may give relieve from light sensitivity.
Glasses are usually advised to cure eye sight problems and eye position. Eye muscle surgery is recommended sometime to cure abnormal eye movement, which is known as nystagmus.

Home remedies

Use low vision aids
Like hand-held magnifying glass, a monocular or a magnifier that connects to spectacles .

Apply sunscreensIn this condition the victim should use a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 that protects against both UVA and UVB light.

Avoid high-risk sun exposure
The victim in this condition should avoid sun exposure such as being outside in the middle of the day, at high altitudes and on sunny days with thin cloud cover.

Wear protective clothingVictim in this condition should be cover properly whenever go outside the home including long-sleeved shirts, long pants and broad-rimmed hats.

Protect your eyesIn this condition the victim should use UV-blocking dark spectacles.

SurgeryEven though surgery is the rarely part of treatment for albinism, Doctor may recommend surgery on optical muscles that reduce nystagmus. Surgery to correct strabismus may make the condition less observable, but it will not improve vision sent percent.

Doctor will also carry on an annual assessment of  the child's skin to screen for skin cancer or injuries that can lead to cancer. Adults with albinism require annual eye and skin exams throughout their whole live.

Related Stories: