A recent article published in Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia informed that oculocutaneous albinism – an autosomal recessive disease, is caused by the complete absence or decrease of melanin biosynthesis in melanocytes. Owing to the scarce production or absence of melanin, albinos are highly susceptible to the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation and are at an increased risk of actinic damage and skin cancer.

The authors reported that globally, little is known about albinism—with respect to the epidemiological data, as well as phenotypic and genotypic variations. Many patients with this condition have no access to resources or specialized medical care, and are often neglected and deprived of social inclusion.

Brazil is a tropical country, with a high incidence of solar radiation during the year nationwide. Consequently, actinic damage and skin cancer occur early and have a high incidence in this population, often leading to premature death.

The article summarized that skin monitoring of these patients and immediate therapeutic interventions have a positive impact in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition. Hence, health education is important to inform albinos and their families, the general population, educators, medical professionals and public agencies about the particularities of this genetic condition.

Source: Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia. Sep-Oct 2019;94(5):503-520. doi: 10.1016/j.abd.2019.09.023.