Cataract Surgery and Its Role in Low Vision Rehabilitation of Ocular Albinism

Ocular albinism is a genetic condition in which the eyes lack melanin pigment and normal melanin production. Visual impairment resulting from reduced visual acuity and photophobia are commonly associated with ocular forms of albinism. As such, vision rehabilitation is essential to maximizing the function and visual potential of individuals with albinism. Cataract surgery, despite its commonplace use to improve vision in normally sighted individuals, is less thought of as a tool in the vision rehabilitation process of ocular albinism. This case report reviews the use of cataract surgery in a patient with ocular albinism, and the literature supporting its use to improve visual function in this population.