Vitiligo other diagnostic studies
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: João André Alves Silva, M.D. [2]
Overview
The cellular mechanism beneath the vitiligo lesion is the destruction of melanocytes. Therefore, on an histological study, it will be noted the absence of melanocytes on the region of the lesion and possibly lymphocytic infiltrates on its periphery, consistent with the destruction of melanocytes by the immune system.
Other Diagnosis Studies
Biopsy
Frequently not required, since the diagnosis is often suggested by the history and characteristics of the lesions. However, an electron microscopy study of the skin lesions will show the previously mentioned microscopical changes, thereby confirming:[1][2][3]
- Melanocyte loss.
- Melanocyte degeneration on the margins of the lesions.
- Keratinocyte abnormalities.
- Occasional dermal hypercellularity may be found.
- In inflammatory vitiligo, the study of the cells from the erythematous margins will show the lymphocitic infiltrates.
References
- ↑ Rook, Arthur (2004). Rook's textbook of dermatology. Malden, Mass: Blackwell Science. ISBN 0-632-06429-3.
- ↑ Dawber RP (1970). "Clinical associations of vitiligo". Postgrad Med J. 46 (535): 276–7. PMC 2467025. PMID 5448375.
- ↑ Birbeck, Michael S; Breathnach, Aodán S; Everall, John D (1961). "An Electron Microscope Study of Basal Melanocytes and High-Level Clear Cells (Langerhans Cells) in Vitiligo1". The Journal of Investigative Dermatology. 37 (1): 51–64. doi:10.1038/jid.1961.80. ISSN 0022-202X.