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Diagnosis

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A detailed history of the patient must be obtained which should include:

  • family history of vitiligo:
  • premature hair graying
  • family or personal history of autoimmune disease (thyroid, alopecia areata, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis)
  • previous episodes of repigmentation
  • trauma previous to the skin changes (1)

A Wood's lamp can used to identify areas of depigmentation which is not visible to the naked eye (2). It is less helpful in patients with darker skin types (1)

A blood test should be performed annually to check thyroid function tests because of an increased risk of autoimmune thyroid disease (1)

Atypical cases of vitiligo should be referred to a dermatologist (2).

Reference:

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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