Genetic counselling in X-linked ocular albinism: clinical features of the carrier state

Forty-nine obligate heterozygotes and 64 at risk females were assessed from 17 families affected by X-linked ocular albinism to determine the relative values of clinical examination and skin biopsy in carrier detection. 92% of obligate heterozygotes had a mud-splattered appearance of the fundus with hyperpigmented streaks and in 74% this was associated with marked iris translucency. Skin histology showed macromelanosomes in 84%. 27 of 64 (42%) at risk females had definite features of the carrier state and 19 (30%) were unequivocally normal but a further 18 (28%) had mild RPE abnormalities, often with iris transillumination defects, of uncertain significance. Fundus examination will detect most carrier females but will not allow reliable genetic counselling for all at risk females, even when supplemented by skin biopsy.