Types of Albinism

To date, there are several identified types of albinism. Below you will find a brief description of each one, along with links to Web sites containing further information.

Ocular Albinism (OA) affects only the eyes, not the skin or hair. It results from an X-linked chromosomal inheritance and so occurs mostly in boys.

Oculocutaneous Albinism (OCA) affects the eyes, hair and skin and includes several different subtypes. To learn about subtypes, click here.

Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome (HPS) is a rare type of albinism, which has an increased incidence among people of Puerto Rican descent. It may involve bleeding disorders, bruising, lung problems and intestinal disorders. For more information, please go to hpsnetwork.org.

Chediak-Higashi Syndrome is another rare form of albinism. It is characterized by an abnormality in certain types of white blood cells, lowering resistance to infection. For more information, please go to emedicine.com/derm/topic704.htm.

Griscelli Syndrome is an extremely rare type of albinism. In fact, there are only 60 known cases worldwide. Like Chediak-Higashi Syndrome, it involves immunodeficiency and may also have associated neurological problems. You can learn more at emedicine.com/derm/topic926.htm.