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  • Perinatal/Neonatal Case Presentation
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Perinatal/Neonatal Case Presentation

Case report: a black and white twin

Journal of Perinatology volume 30, pages 434–436 (2010)Cite this article

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Abstract

Albinism is an autosomal recessive disorder that is caused by a defective synthesis of melanin, resulting in a generalized reduction of pigmentation in the skin, hair and eyes, and leading to an increased risk of skin cancer and vision problems. We report a case of a 22-year-old primigravida of Negroid origin who delivered dichorial diamniotic twins: two daughters were born with a totally different appearance. The first child had a light brown skin, black curly hair and brown eyes, whereas the second had a striking white skin, red-blond curly hair and blue eyes. Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) and heteropaternal superfecundation were considered in the differential diagnosis. Genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis of OCA type 2 in the second child. The diagnosis of albinism has clinical implications and must be considered when a black and white twin is born.

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Acknowledgements

We thank the mother of the twin for her consent to publish this case report.

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  1. Department of Obstetrics, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands

    M J Claas, A Timmermans & H W Bruinse

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  1. M J Claas
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  2. A Timmermans
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  3. H W Bruinse
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Correspondence to M J Claas.

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Claas, M., Timmermans, A. & Bruinse, H. Case report: a black and white twin. J Perinatol 30, 434–436 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1038/jp.2009.156

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/jp.2009.156

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