Arkansas Esthetician Practice Exam

What is Albinism?

1. A skin condition that results in red patches

2. An acquired skin darkening

3. A disease causing excessive hair growth

4. A congenital disease resulting in failure to produce melanin

The correct answer is: A congenital disease resulting in failure to produce melanin

Albinism is accurately described as a congenital condition resulting in the body's failure to produce melanin, the pigment responsible for coloration in the skin, hair, and eyes. This absence or deficiency of melanin leads to lighter skin and hair and can impact vision as well, making individuals with albinism more susceptible to sunburn and certain vision problems due to the lack of pigment in their eyes. The other options do not accurately describe albinism. For instance, describing albinism as a skin condition that results in red patches or referring to it as an acquired skin darkening both suggest issues relating to increased pigmentation, which is contrary to the essence of albinism. Similarly, labeling it a disease causing excessive hair growth does not align with the characteristics of albinism, which is marked by a reduced pigment level rather than an increase. This distinction is fundamental in understanding the nature of the condition.