Oculocutaneous albinism | |
---|---|
Other names | OCA |
Specialty | Ophthalmology, dermatology |
Oculocutaneous albinism is a form of albinism involving the eyes (oculo-), the skin (-cutaneous), and the hair.[1] Overall, an estimated 1 in 20,000 people worldwide are born with oculocutaneous albinism.[1] OCA is caused by mutations in several genes that control the synthesis of melanin within the melanocytes.[2] Seven types of oculocutaneous albinism have been described, all caused by a disruption of melanin synthesis and all autosomal recessive disorders.[3][4][5]: 864 Oculocutaneous albinism is also found in non-human animals.