Albinism — The Trichological Society

A recessive hereditary trait which presents as white hair due to defective melanin production thought to be caused by a mutation within genes.

Albinos have no melanin pigment and do not tan but their skin is otherwise considered normal.

Albinism affects people from all races.

Melanin is a skin pigment which absorbs ultraviolet radiation. It is produced in melanocytes, cells present in hair follicles which convert the amino acid – Tyrosine into Melanin pigment.

There are two types of pigment: Eumelanin (black-brown) and Pheomelanin (red-blond).

Tyrosinase is the major enzyme responsible for the formation of Melanin pigment viz:
Tyrosin > DOPA > Dopaquinone > Eumelanin or Pheomelanin

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The development of a suntan occurs as melanin pigment is increased in the skin.

Prof. B Stevens FTTS

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