Hypopigmentation of skin : differentials

The following table outlines the differential diagnosis for hypopigmentation in dermatological settings. Recognizing that hypopigmentation can be a manifestation of various systemic and cutaneous conditions, this table aims to assist clinicians in effectively identifying and distinguishing among the numerous possibilities. Conditions such as vitiligo, tinea versicolor, and drug-induced hypopigmentation are among those discussed, each with its clinical relevance highlighted.

Differentials for Hypopigmentation	Clinical Information and Relevance
Vitiligo	Characterized by depigmented patches of skin; often symmetric. Associated with other autoimmune disorders.
Pityriasis Alba	Common in children and adolescents; presents as pale patches, usually on the face.
Tinea Versicolor	Fungal infection that disrupts normal pigmentation, usually causing hypopigmented patches.
Post-inflammatory Hypopigmentation	Follows skin inflammation or injury; can occur after conditions like dermatitis or burns.
Nevus Depigmentosus	Congenital condition presenting with stable, non-progressive hypopigmented patches.
Albinism	Genetic condition causing a complete or partial absence of melanin.
Leprosy	Infectious disease that can cause skin lightening along with other cutaneous and systemic symptoms.
Hypopigmented Mycosis Fungoides	A rare variant of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, presents with hypopigmented patches.
Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanosis	Characterized by small, round, hypopigmented macules; commonly observed on sun-exposed areas in older adults.
Drug-induced Hypopigmentation	Caused by medications like corticosteroids, retinoids, or certain antimalarials....

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