skin of the entire body is white, the hair
very fine, soft and white or whitish-yellow in color, the irides are
colorless or light blue, and the pupils, owing to the absence of pigment
in the choroid, are red; this absence of pigment in the eyes gives rise
to photophobia and nystagmus. _Albinos_--a term applied to such
individuals--are commonly of feeble constitution, and may exhibit
imperfect mental development.

#Describe partial albinismus.#

Partial albinismus is met with most frequently in the colored race. In
this form of the affection the pigment is absent in one, several or more
variously-sized patches; usually the hairs growing thereon are likewise
colorless.

#Is there any structural change in the skin?#

No. The functions of the skin are performed in a perfectly natural
manner, and microscopical examination shows no departure from normal
structure save the complete absence of pigment.

#What is known in regard to the etiology?#

Nothing is known of the causes producing albinismus beyond the single
fact that it is frequently hereditary.

#Does albinismus admit of treatment?#

No; the condition is without remedy.

#Vitiligo.#
(_Synonyms:_ Leucoderma; Leucopathia.)

#Give a definition of vitiligo.#

Vitiligo may be defined as a disease involving the pigment of the skin
alone, characterized by several or more progressive, milky-white patches
surrounded by increased pigmentation.

#Describe the symptoms of vitiligo.#

The disease may begin at one or more regions, the backs of the hands,
trunk and face being favorite parts; its appearance is usually
insidious, and the spots may not be especially noticeable until they are
the size of a pea or larger. The patches grow slowly, are milky or dead
white, smooth, non-elevated, and of rounded outline; the bordering skin
is darker than normal, showing increased pigmentation. Several
contiguous spots may coalesce and form a large, irregularly-shaped
patch. Hair growing on the involved skin may or may not be blanched.

There are no subjective symptoms.

#What course does vitiligo pursue?#

The course of the disease is slow, months and sometimes years elapsing
before it reaches conspicuous development. It may after a time remain
stationary, or, in rare instances, retrogress; as a rule, however, it is
progressive. Exceptionally, the greater part, or even the whole surface
may eventually be involved.