Albinism

E70.3

• Description
• General measures
• Medicine treatment
• Referral

DESCRIPTION

Congenital disorder characterised by the complete or partial absence of pigment in the skin, hair and eyes.
Albinism is associated with a number of vision defects such as photophobia, nystagmus, squint and amblyopia.
Lack of skin pigmentation increases a person's susceptibility to sunburn and skin cancers.

GENERAL MEASURES

To avoid sunburn and skin damage:

• Avoid going out when the sun is at its strongest (between 10 am and 3 pm).
• When out in the sun to wear a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved top.
• To wear sunscreens with a high sun protection factor (SPF); a SPF of between 20 and 30 will provide adequate protection. The product should also provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
• To reduce photophobia and prevent retinal damage:
  • Wear sunglasses that preferably have UV filters
  • Check skin regularly for signs of skin cancer such as a new spot or growth on their skin.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

• Zinc oxide, topical ointment.
  • Apply evenly to all sun exposed areas at least 15 minutes before going out into the sun.

LoEIII [21]

OR

• Titanium dioxide, topical ointment/cream (UV block).
  • Apply evenly to all sun exposed areas at least 15 minutes before going out into the sun

LoEIII [22]

REFERRAL

• To dermatologist for regular skin checks.
• To ophthalmologist for visual rehabilitation and regular eye checks.