Table of contents:
- Is it possible that the symptoms of albinism appear from birth?
- Risk factors for babies born with albinism
- Various signs of albinism in babies
- 1. Unusual eye movements
- 2. Pale skin, hair, hair and eye color
- 3. Sensitive to sunlight
- Tips for raising a baby with albinism
Albinism (albino) is a genetic disorder that can be passed on by parents to their children. The most easily recognizable symptoms of albinism are very pale skin, hair, and eyes. However, in some cases albinism may go undetected because the symptoms may not be visible. To further identify what are the symptoms of albinism in babies, continue to look at the following full review.
Is it possible that the symptoms of albinism appear from birth?
Yes, the characteristics of albinism are usually present from birth. Albinism can even be detected since the baby is still in the womb. This is done by analyzing DNA from the placenta of pregnant women. This examination is usually done for babies whose parents or families have albinism as well.
Risk factors for babies born with albinism
It should be noted, albinism is a genetic disorder that can affect anyone. Regardless of a person's gender, social class, or race and ethnicity.
Because albinism is a genetic disorder, the biggest risk factor for babies with this rare condition is heredity. Children whose parents, grandparents, or grandparents have albinism are more likely to develop albinism as well.
This inherited genetic disorder causes melanin production to be inhibited. Melanin itself is a pigment that is responsible for giving color to skin, hair and eyes.
Various signs of albinism in babies
1. Unusual eye movements
In babies who are three to four months old, you can observe some symptoms of albinism, especially in your baby's eyes. Note that your baby's eyes are often moving on their own quite intensely, either in the same direction or in the opposite direction. This condition is called nystagmus.
2. Pale skin, hair, hair and eye color
The eye color of babies with albinism is generally blue or very pale brown. In addition, if your baby has yellow, brown, or red hair or fine hair, it is likely that your baby has albinism. In serious cases, your baby may have white hair and fur.
Usually, a baby's pale hair and skin color will turn darker on its own as they grow older. But maybe not.
3. Sensitive to sunlight
A sign of albinism in babies that is also worth watching out for is that the baby is very sensitive to sunlight. When you leave a baby with albinism outside the house, brown spots appear (freckles) on the skin, especially on the face.
Tips for raising a baby with albinism
If you and your partner suspect your baby has albinism, immediately take it to the doctor for diagnosis and further examination. The reason is, there are many types and causes of albinism and each condition is certainly different.
According to a geneticist and molecular biologist from Denmark, Karen Gronskov, pediatricians will examine the baby's eye function. After that, the doctor will perform DNA tests to determine the cause of albinism, for example, a deficiency in certain enzymes.
To ensure a baby with albinism continues to grow and develop properly, keep the baby out of direct sunlight and prevent eye damage with special glasses. The reason is, albinism in babies can increase the risk of skin cancer and eye damage later in life.
Consult your doctor and health workers directly to adjust your lifestyle after receiving a diagnosis of albinism in infants. Children with albinism also usually face considerable social pressure. So, always pay attention that when he grows up, your child (regardless of age) experiences stress or depression.
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