Overview
Definition
Acquired autoimmune disorder characterized by depigmented macules and patches.
Epidemiology
Affects 0.5-1% of the global population.
Etiology & Risk Factors
- Autoimmune destruction of melanocytes
- Genetic predisposition
Clinical Symptoms
- Well-demarcated, sharply defined areas of completely depigmented (white) skin
- Common on face, hands, genitalia
- Leukotrichia (white hair)
Clinical Approach
Diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis
- Wood's lamp examination (enhances contrast of depigmented areas)
Management
- Sun protection
- Topical corticosteroids
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors
- Narrowband UVB phototherapy
- Depigmentation (if >80% body surface area affected)
Complications
- Increased risk of sunburn
- Psychological/social impact
- Association with other autoimmune diseases (Thyroid, Pernicious anemia)