Albinism
My husband had an albino son in his first marriage. We’d now like to start a family, but I’m worried we might have another albino child. What is the chance, and what are the health effects of being an albino?
Answer:
Albinism is a rare, inherited disorder in which the pigment-forming cells of the skin cannot make melanin pigment because an enzyme necessary for its production is lacking. The gene causing albinism is recessive - which means a child must inherit the gene from both parents to be affected. If both carry the gene, one in four of their children will be affected. If one parent is an albino, half the children will be affected. If both parents are albinos, all children will be affected.
In albinism, the hair is white, the skin is pale and the iris of the eye is pink. Albinos have no protection against sunlight, so must avoid it by using sunglasses, sunscreens and protective clothing. Otherwise, apart from a tendency to eye problems and being at high risk for skin cancer, their health is usually normal.
Get some genetic advice. Your family doctor will advise you where to go there are genetic counsellors at all the major children’s hospitals and most maternity hospitals. As your husband has already fathered an albino child, he must carry the gene. An examination of your family history, and perhaps a test for the gene, can discover whether you carry it. If you don’t, there is no chance of your children being affected.
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