The lack of pigment is defined as albinism, that not only affects outward appearance, but also results in ocular development. Pigment in the hair, skin and eyes is affected by Oculocutaneous albinism. The eye development is exclusively affected by this albinism.
In these patients, hair and skin pigmentation appears to be normal. Patients with albinism of both forms can experience congenital visual problems that are associated with lack of eye pigment.
Treatment options for eye problems associated with this condition are limited, as albinism is a genetic disorder and also due to eye complexity. However, some existing treatments can improve the vision of the patient and recent research done in gene therapy gives new hope to the patients.
People with albinism can experience:
- nystagmus (eye shaking)
- low visual acuity
- strabismus (eyes which cannot move together or crossed eye)
- oscillopsia (vision is disturbed where fixed objects appear to move)
- photophobia (light sensitivity)
- unusual eye or head movements compensating vision variations
There is no treatment or surgery which can correct the defect development in the retina. However, there are few treatments for some specific symptoms which are associated with albinism. Visual acuity of patients suffering from albinism can be improved by vision aids or other treatments as well.
Treatment
Vision disability of varying levels can be the result of ocular albinism and sufferers can adapt well. This condition is not degenerative, therefore vision problems which develop later can be attributed to some vision disorders, such as hyperopia and myopia that are very common in population. Treatments for this albinism can include:
- Bifocals and eyeglasses
- Contact lenses
- Lens implant
- Magnifiers
- Lens replacement
- Prescription glasses
- Surgical laser reshaping
However, none of these correct the congenital defects of Oculocutaneous albinism. Muscle surgery which control the movement of the eyes can be used in order to correct strabismus/crossed eye and improve binocular vision. Nystagmus can also be minimized by similar surgery.
