Vitiligo causes well-defined pale or white patches due to the loss of pigment-producing cells. It can appear at any age and may remain stable or slowly change over time.
Assessment
Diagnosis is clinical and may be supported by a Wood’s lamp to determine the extent of pigment loss and whether the condition is active or stable.
Management
Treatment aims to stabilise pigment loss and support repigmentation. Options include topical therapy, phototherapy and, in selected cases, topical JAK inhibitors. Sun protection and cosmetic camouflage may also help.