Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition which results in the loss of melanocytes and consequent depigmentation of the skin. It is thought to affect around 1% of the population and symptoms typically develop by the age of 20-30 years.

Associated conditions

• type 1 diabetes mellitus
• Addison's disease
• autoimmune thyroid disorders
• pernicious anaemia
• alopecia areata

Features

• well-demarcated patches of depigmented skin
• the peripheries tend to be most affected
• trauma may precipitate new lesions (Koebner phenomenon)

Management

• sunblock for affected areas of skin
• camouflage make-up
• topical corticosteroids may reverse the changes if applied early
• there may also be a role for topical tacrolimus and phototherapy, although caution needs to be exercised with light-skinned patients