Knowledge center. Albinism is a genetic condition also called achromia, achromasia, or achromatosis. It is characterized by a deficit in the production in melanin and by the partial or complete absence of pigment in the skin, hair and eyes.This hereditary disease can be found in humans (affecting all races), mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians.n individual with complete absence of melanin is called an albino. One with only a small amount of melanin is described as albinoid. People with albinism are very pale with fair hair and very light eyes. In some people, the eyes appear red or purple, depending on the amount of pigment.