Vitiligo
This is a common skin condition characterized by patches of skin that have lost their normal pigmentation because melanocytes have been attacked in an autoimmune process. There can be associated thyroid or adrenal disorders. The hair may also turn white or gray prematurely. Treatment consists of prescription creams to stimulate the pigment cells to regrow in the lighter areas. Skin grafting can also be done. Camouflage of the lighter area is probably the safest treatment. Affected patients should take care to avoid sunburns in the depigmented areas since skin cancers may arise more readily in those areas.
