Oregon Esthetician State Board

Which condition is a rare genetic condition characterized by the lack of melanin pigment in the body?

1. Leucoderma

2. Albinism

3. Vitiligo

4. Dyschromia

The correct answer is: Albinism

Albinism is indeed a rare genetic condition marked by a deficiency of melanin pigment in the body. This results from mutations affecting the enzymes that produce melanin, leading to little or no pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. Individuals with albinism often experience lighter skin tones, light-colored hair, and pink or blue eyes, making them more susceptible to sun damage and vision problems due to lack of pigment protection. In contrast, leucoderma is a term often used synonymously with vitiligo, which refers to loss of skin color in patchy areas but does not necessarily stem from a genetic origin. Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition affecting melanin-producing cells (melanocytes). Dyschromia refers to any abnormality in skin color, which can encompass a wide range of conditions, including those caused by external factors or underlying diseases. Thus, while all these conditions relate to pigmentation, albinism specifically describes a hereditary lack of melanin, distinguishing it from the others.