Concept & Etiology:
Vitiligo is a rare condition characterized by small patchy areas of
hypopigmentation (Story 2017). This condition affects the
integumentary system because it involves the cells that produce
melanin. These cells die or no longer form melanin and cause white
patches to form irregular shapes on the skin. The condition of vitiligo
itself does not deviate from the definition of health but the potential
causes of it can. Potential causes such as hypothyroidism and
Addison's disease do deviate from the definition of health.
Classification: Vitiligo can be classified into five categories:
Generalized-affects many parts of the body symmetrically
Segmental-restricted to one side or area of the body
Universal-affects nearly all surfaces of the body
Localized or focal-affects only one or a few areas of the body
Acrofacial-affects the face and hands and around body openings
such as eyes, nose or ears
Signs and Symptoms: Signs of vitiligo are patchy loss of skin color
which may first appear on the hands and the face, premature
whitening of the hair on the head. Also, hair on the eyelashes, beard,
and eyebrows. There may also be signs of loss of color to the tissue
that line the mucous membrane (mouth).
Diagnostic Test: Diagnostic test to determine a diagnosis of vitiligo
are a history and physical examination which may include a Woods's
light exam. A skin biopsy, serum autoantibody, hormone and B12
level measurements are also diagnostic test that can be performed.
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Vitiligo-Symptoms and
Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vitiligo/sy
mptoms-causes/syc-20355912
Story, L. (2017). Pathophysiology: A Practical Approach (3rd Edition).
Jones & Bartlett
Learning. https://mbsdirect.vitalsource.com/books/9781284142983
