Albinism is characterized by:

Study for the Visual Impairment Education Certification Test. Explore multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each. Prepare thoroughly!

Albinism is a genetic condition in which melanin production is substantially reduced or absent, leading to very little or no pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. That lack of pigment explains the light skin and hair colors and the pale or light-colored eyes often seen in people with albinism. Because melanin also protects the eyes from bright light and helps with clear vision, reduced pigment commonly comes with vision challenges such as sensitivity to light and reduced visual acuity. The other statements don’t fit: increased pigment would create darker skin and hair, vision problems are common in albinism, and it isn’t caused by exposure to sunlight—it's a genetic condition present from birth.