What condition is characterized by a lack of melanin in skin, hair, and eyes?

Albinism is a genetic condition that results in a significant reduction or complete absence of melanin, the pigment responsible for coloring skin, hair, and eyes. This lack of melanin can lead to very light skin and hair, and it also significantly affects eye color and can cause vision problems, as melanin is important for the development of normal vision.

Understanding this condition is crucial as it highlights the role of melanin in protecting the skin from UV radiation. Individuals with albinism are at an increased risk of sunburn and skin cancer due to their lower levels of pigmentation. Moreover, albinism is often accompanied by other health considerations, particularly concerning eye health, including sensitivity to light and reduced visual acuity.

While other conditions listed, such as leukoderma and vitiligo, involve pigmentation changes, they are not characterized by a complete lack of melanin throughout the body as seen in albinism. Pellagra, on the other hand, is related to nutritional deficiency and has no direct connection to melanin production.