Children born with Oculocutaneous Albinism (OCA) have little or no pigment in the eyes, skin and hair. They have inherited from their parents an altered gene that does not allow the body to make the normal quantities of a pigment called melanin. Melanin is used to absorb ultraviolet light from the sun and protects the skin from being damaged. Melanin pigment is also present in the fovea of the eyes and helps the fovea to develop correctly. The nerve connections between the retina and the brain can also be altered if melanin pigment is not present in the retina during its development. In most cases OCA is so severe that the condition leaves the child legally blind.

More Informatinon on The Vision Of Children, OCA and Albinism is available here:

The Vision Of Children: http://www.visionofchildren.com

International Albinism Center: http://www.cbc.umn.edu/iac/

Noah: http://www.albinism.org