Pennsylvania Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which condition results in the skin's failure to produce melanin?

1. Albinism

2. Psoriasis

3. Eczema

4. Dermatitis

The correct answer is: Albinism

Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin production in the body, including the skin, hair, and eyes. It occurs due to mutations in genes responsible for melanin synthesis, leading to little or no pigment in the affected areas. Individuals with albinism often have very light skin and hair, and they might also experience vision problems due to the lack of pigment in the eyes. In contrast, the other conditions listed—psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis—are primarily inflammatory skin disorders that do not involve the failure of melanin production. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to scaly patches, while eczema refers to a group of conditions causing inflamed, itchy skin. Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin, which can arise from various factors such as irritants or allergens. These conditions can affect skin appearance and texture but do not prevent the production of melanin.