[How I explore ... vitiligo].
Vitiligo is likely a syndrome rather than a disease. Several pathogenic causes are indeed recognized. The exploration of such condition encompasses three distinct facets. Establishing the diagnosis and a precise typing of the skin clinical presentation represents the first step. The ophthalmologic examination is mandatory in order to detect infraclinical signs of uveitis and retinopathy. Auditory problems can also be present. Searching for associated diseases should be oriented in priority toward alopecia areata and some specific autoimmune endocrinopathies.
Hermanns
J F
JF
Service de Dermatopathologie, Université de Liège.
Piérard
G E
GE
D000505:Alopecia / Q000473:pathology; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004700:Endocrine System Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D012173:Retinitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D014605:Uveitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D014820:Vitiligo / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology