Vitiligo

Definition:

A skin condition in which there is loss of pigment from areas of skin resulting in irregular white patches with normal skin texture.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Vitiligo appears to be an acquired condition and may appear at any age. There is an increased incidence in some families. Vitiligo is more noticeable in darker skinned people because of the contrast. The cause of vitiligo is unknown, but autoimmunity may be a factor, because there is selective loss of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) in the involved area without destruction of the skin or other nearby structures. This condition affects about 1% of the US population.

Lesions appear as flat depigmented areas with a darker border. The edges are sharply defined but irregular. Frequently affected areas are the face, elbows and knees, hands and feet, and genitalia. Also associated are sites of trauma and pressure.