Question 1

A parent reports the appearance of areas of depigmented skin on a child which has spread rapidly. The provider notes asymmetrically patterned tri-colored, macules in a dermatomal distribution. What type of vitiligo does the provider suspect?

A) Inflammatory vitiligo
B) Segmented vitiligo
C) Type A vitiligo
D) Vitiligo with poliosis

B

Accepted Answer

The description of asymmetrically patterned tri-colored macules in a dermatomal distribution is characteristic of segmented vitiligo. This type of vitiligo is usually stable and does not spread as rapidly as other types. Inflammatory vitiligo is characterized by redness and inflammation in the affected areas, Type A vitiligo is associated with autoimmune disorders, and vitiligo with poliosis is characterized by depigmentation of hair in addition to the skin.

Question 2

A patient diagnosed with well-localized vitiligo is referred to a dermatologist for treatment. What will the initial treatment be?&#10;A) Chemical depigmentation with mequinol&#10;B) Narrow-band ultraviolet B light therapy&#10;C) Psoralens plus ultraviolet A light&#10;D) Twice-daily application of a mid-potency steroid cream

Accepted Answer

The initial treatment for well-localized vitiligo often involves the use of topical therapies, among which mid-potency steroid creams applied twice daily are commonly recommended due to their effectiveness in repigmenting the skin.

Question 3

A patient who is diagnosed with vitiligo asks the provider what can be done to minimize the contrast between depigmented and normal skin. What will the provider recommend?&#10;A) Applying a cosmetic cover-up or tanning cream&#10;B) Lightening the dark skin areas with hydrogen peroxide&#10;C) Tanning for limited periods in a tanning booth&#10;D) Waiting for all skin to become depigmented

Accepted Answer

Applying a cosmetic cover-up or tanning cream can help minimize the contrast between depigmented and normal skin. Lightening the dark skin areas with hydrogen peroxide is not recommended as it can lead to further damage of the skin. Tanning for limited periods in a tanning booth can also be harmful to the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. Waiting for all skin to become depigmented is not a practical solution as it may not occur in all areas of the body and can take a long time.

Deck 50: Pigmentation Changes