Skin pigment disorders

Question 1

Name 2 disorders associated with hypo pigmentation?

Answer 1

Albinism

Vitiligo

Question 2

Albinism - what is it?

Answer 2

Results from a range of genetic abnormalities leading to reduced pigment production (therefore, decreased melanin)

Question 3

Albinism - genetics

Answer 3

Inherited as an autosomal recessive trait

Question 4

Albinism - clinical presentation

Answer 4

Whitish hair

Very pale skin

Question 5

Albinism - are melanocytes reduced in number or normal?

Answer 5

Normal

- but have abnormal function

Question 6

Albinism - management

Answer 6

Obsessie protection against UV rays

Question 7

Vitiligo - what is it?

Answer 7

Common disorder of depigmentation

Question 8

Vitiligo - are melanocytes reduced in number or normal?

Answer 8

Reduced in number

Question 9

Vitiligo - pathogenesis

Answer 9

Areas of melanocyte loss resulting in areas of depigmentation
Autoimmune - immune system attacking its own body

Question 10

Vitiligo - morphology

Answer 10

Well-demarcated macules/patches of pigment loss

Often symmetrical

Question 11

Vitiligo - management

Answer 11

Treatment aimed at stimulating melanocyte growth by blocking immune cell function
Phototherapy

Question 12

Vitiligo - risks

Answer 12

May develop to malignant melanoma

Question 13

Vitiligo - investigations

Answer 13

Woods light - enhances contrast between pigmented and non-pigmented skin