Vitiligo vs. Albinism: Understanding the Differences

Vitiligo and albinism are two distinct disorders characterized by the loss of normal skin pigmentation. Each disorder has its own sources, symptoms, and associated physical syndromes and complaints.

Vitiligo

• The U.S. National Library of Medicine describes vitiligo as an acquired syndrome that sometimes occurs at heightened frequency in certain family bloodlines. Its effects may manifest at any age.

Albinism

• Albinism is a collective term for several inherited disorders involving underproduction or lack of the pigment melanin, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition to the skin, it may affect the hair and eyes.

Vitiligo Effects

• Vitiligo typically manifests as flattened segments of skin with gradual or sudden loss of all pigmentation, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine. These segments commonly appear on the feet, hands, face, elbows, genitals or knees.

Albinism Effects

• Albinism's effects vary with its severity, with outcomes ranging from combined pigment loss in the hair, skin and iris to pigment loss limited to the retina in the back of the eye, notes the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Associated Conditions

• The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists conditions sometimes associated with vitiligo that include Addison's disease, pernicious anemia and hyperthyroidism. Conditions associated with albinism include functional blindness, light sensitivity, crossed eyes and rapid eye movements (nystagmus).