Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a condition which involves complete loss of melanin, the primary skin pigment. The cause of vitiligo is unknown but it appears to be an acquired condition and may appear at any age. The resulting lesions are white in comparison to the surrounding skin. Vitiligo may occur in the same areas on both sides of the face or it may be patchy. The typical vitiligo lesion is flat and depigmented, but maintains the normal skin texture.

Vitiligo, Drug Induced

The white spots on this person's face have resulted from drug-induced vitiligo. Loss of melanin, the primary skin pigment, occasionally occurs as a result of medications, as is the case with this individual. The typical vitiligo lesion is flat (macular) and depigmented, but maintains the normal skin texture.

Vitiligo on the Face

This is a picture of vitiligo on the face. Complete loss of melanin, the primary skin pigment, occurs for unknown reasons. The resulting lesions are white in comparison to the surrounding skin. Vitiligo may occur in the same areas on both sides of the face (symmetrically) or it may be patchy (asymmetrical). The typical vitiligo lesion is flat (macular) and depigmented, but maintains the normal skin texture. The dark areas around the eyes are this person's normal skin color.

Tuberous Sclerosis, Hypopigmented Macule

This area of decreased pigment (hypopigmentation) is referred to as an "ash leaf macule" and is seen with the inherited disorder, tuberous sclerosis. Another finding, "confetti hypopigmentation" is evident as scattered white spots around the ash leaf spot.

Vitiligo on the Back and Arm

Vitiligo is characterized by patches of depigmented skin. Here, the contrast is seen very clearly. People with very light skin may not notice small areas of vitiligo. This person is receiving ultraviolet light treatment to help normalize the color of the skin.