The hermansky-pudlak syndrome: clinical features and imperatives from an ophthalmic perspective

The Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome (HPS) is a rare, autosomal recessive condition comprising nine genetically heterogeneous entities that feature oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) and bleeding tendency as their principal clinical manifestations. The pathogenesis of HPS involves disturbances in the biogenesis and trafficking of lysosome-related organelles. While the ophthalmologist is trained to address the ocular manifestations of OCA, it is critical for the provider to consider HPS when examining OCA patients as its systemic sequelae may be associated with morbidity and mortality. If there is suspicion of HPS in a patient with albinism, the ophthalmologist should enlist the aid of consultants to confirm the diagnosis and monitor for systemic features. As the nine HPS subtypes explored in this article vary widely in the character and severity of their associated systemic manifestations, some authors advocate determining the specific gene defect in each HPS patient in order to optimize care and provide anticipatory guidance.