Decreased skin pigmentation
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| Decreased skin pigmentation |
Template:Search infobox Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Knowing the difference between hypopigmentation and depigmentation is essential to determining the differential diagnosis.
Depigmentation is the complete loss of pigment. Hypopigmentation is a decrease in pigment. They can both indicate the diagnosis whether local or general.
Differential Diagnosis
In alphabetical order. [1] [2]
- Albinism
- Chemical leukoderma
- Congenital birthmarks
- Piebaldism
- Pityriasis alba
- Tuberous sclerosis that can result in hypopigmentation
- Vitiligo
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
- Determine degree of hypopigmentation and depigmentation
- Family history of thyroid disease, diabetes and endocrine problems
- Obtain personal history, include:
-
- these may help determine the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis
Eyes
- perform eye exam to aid in diagnosis of albinism
Other
- Wood's lamp exam can be used to emphasize Hypo- and depigmented areas
Laboratory Findings
- Labs include:
- CBC (in suspected vitiligo patients)
- Thyroid function tests
Other Diagnostic Studies
- Skin biopsy for vitiligo
Treatment
Acute Pharmacotherapies
Vitiligo
- Topical steroids
Chronic Pharmacotherapies
Vitiligo
- Oral beta-carotene for patients with chronic vitiligo and albanism
Indications for Surgery
Punch minigrafting from normal skin donors to vitiligo patients can aid in the repopulation of melanocytes
Primary Prevention
- Sunscreen can protect from further skin issues
References