Chediak-Higashi Syndrome (CHS) is a rare genetic disorder that is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.  This means that both parents are expected to be carriers of the abnormal gene.

Persons with CHS have a range of medical problems, including decreased pigment in the skin and eyes or albinism, a tendency toward bleeding caused by a platelet dysfunction and recurrent infections due to white cell abnormalities.  Some individuals also have neurologic problems, such as poor sensation in their arms and legs.

Under a microscope, the white blood cells have giant granules which are characteristic of the disease.