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Chediak Higashi Syndrome

Definition

Chediak-Higashi syndrome is rare, inherited disease of the immune and nervous systems characterized by pale-colored hair, eyes, and skin.

Symptoms

Children with this condition may have:

  • Albinism -- silvery sheen to the hair, light-colored eyes
  • Increased infections in the lungs, skin, and mucous membranes
  • Jerky eye movements (nystagmus)

Infection of affected children with certain viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), can cause a deadly illness resembling the blood cancer lymphoma.

Other symptoms may include:

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