Hypopigmentation
Vitiligo:
Complete loss of pigmentation in discrete patches, due to loss of epidermal melanocytes
M=F; peak age of onset 10-30 yrs; affects >1% of population.
Aetiology unknown, but may be autoimmune response against melanocytes (can be associated with thyroid disease and diabetes mellitus)
Varies widely in its presentation. Lesions can be single or multiple – typically have a well demarcated border.
Can also cause depigmentation of hair (leukotrichia).
Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation/leukoderma:
Many inflammatory conditions can disrupt pigmentary system, especially if the dermoepidermal junction is involved hypopigmented patch colour often returns after several months
Albinosm:
Rare autosomal recessive condition resulting in abnormal melanin synthesis – either a defect in the enzyme tyrosinase (decrease in melanin synthesis) or defect in packaging of melanin in melanosomes).
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