chemical leukoderma

Epidemiology

• exposure to chemical that selectively destroy melanocytes
  • phenols & catechols in germicides & rubber products

Pathology

• decreased numbers of melanocytes
• release of cellular antigens & activation of circulating lymphocytes may explain satellited phenomenon

Clinical manifestations

• hypopigmented areas similar appearance to vitiligo
• often begins on hands
• satellite lesions in areas NOT exposed to chemicals

Laboratory

• under Wood's lamp, lesions become more apparent (chalk white)
• skin biopsy NOT diagnostic

More general terms

• pigmentation disorder

Additional terms

• hypopigmentation
• vitiligo