What condition is described by the absence of pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes?

What condition is described by the absence of pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes?

• A. Albinism
• B. Gangrene
• C. Vesicle
• D. Decubitus ulcer

Answer: (A)

Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by the complete or partial absence of pigment, specifically melanin, in the skin, hair, and eyes. This lack of pigmentation results from mutations affecting melanin-producing cells called melanocytes. Individuals with albinism often have very light skin and hair and are more sensitive to sunlight due to the absence of protective melanin in their skin. Additionally, they may experience vision problems, such as photophobia and poor vision, due to the lack of pigment in the iris of the eye that normally helps protect against UV light. In contrast, the other choices refer to different medical conditions. Gangrene involves the death of body tissue due to a lack of blood flow or infection. A vesicle is a small fluid-filled blister on the skin, typically caused by irritation or infection, and does not involve pigment loss. A decubitus ulcer, also known as a pressure sore, results from prolonged pressure on the skin, leading to tissue damage, but it is unrelated to pigmentation. Thus, the defining characteristic of albinism is the absence of pigment, which directly aligns with the question's description.

Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by the complete or partial absence of pigment, specifically melanin, in the skin, hair, and eyes. This lack of pigmentation results from mutations affecting melanin-producing cells called melanocytes. Individuals with albinism often have very light skin and hair and are more sensitive to sunlight due to the absence of protective melanin in their skin. Additionally, they may experience vision problems, such as photophobia and poor vision, due to the lack of pigment in the iris of the eye that normally helps protect against UV light.

In contrast, the other choices refer to different medical conditions. Gangrene involves the death of body tissue due to a lack of blood flow or infection. A vesicle is a small fluid-filled blister on the skin, typically caused by irritation or infection, and does not involve pigment loss. A decubitus ulcer, also known as a pressure sore, results from prolonged pressure on the skin, leading to tissue damage, but it is unrelated to pigmentation. Thus, the defining characteristic of albinism is the absence of pigment, which directly aligns with the question's description.