Background: Vitiligo is an acquired pigmentary skin disorder that affects 0.5-2% of the population. Many patients contact their physician and alternative therapists for help. This review article presents an update of knowledge about vitiligo and is aimed at physicians that treat this patient group.
Method: The article is based on literature identified on PubMed, textbooks in Dermatology and supplemented by clinical experience.
Results and interpretation: Vitiligo is characterized by the absence of melanocytes in skin and hair follicles. The pathogenesis is complex with genetic, autoimmune and toxic contributors. Clinically well-defined milk-white maculae are seen in the skin, with a wide variety of spread and distribution. The debut of vitiligo is often in childhood and adolescence. Investigations indicate that vitiligo affects quality in life for both children and adults. Treatment of vitiligo is a challenge. Phototherapy with narrowband UVB or topical therapy with tacrolimus ointment or potent steroids may be indicated in some cases, but the effect is not well documented.