Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Skin Pigmentation (Decreased)
Introduction
Overview
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
Differential Diagnosis
In alphabetical order. [1] [2]
- Albinism
- Chemical leukoderma
- Congenital birthmarks
- Piebaldism
- Pityriasis alba
- Tuberous sclerosis that can result in hypopigmentation
- Vitiligo
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
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
Laboratory Findings
- Labs include:
- CBC (in suspected vitiligo patients)
- Thyroid function tests
Other Diagnostic Studies
- Skin biopsy for vitiligo
Treatment
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
Primary Prevention
- Sunscreen can protect from further skin issues
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: Template:Search infobox C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]