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The path to vitiligo diagnosis is generally straightforward. Vitiligo is usually diagnosed by a dermatologist, a skin specialist who has training that allows them to distinguish between similar skin conditions.1 Typically a dermatologist will take a medical history, conduct a physical examination, and in some cases may order bloodwork or a biopsy depending on the type of vitiligo suspected.
The doctor will likely take a medical history during your appointment. They may ask questions including the following:
The dermatologist will conduct a full body examination to evaluate your skin.4 The doctor may use a Wood’s lamp, a type of ultraviolet light, to look at the skin more closely. Using a Wood’s lamp allows your doctor to see the areas of discoloration more clearly, especially for people with lighter skin tones. The Wood’s lamp can help determine if skin depigmentation is caused by vitiligo or another condition.2,5
In some cases, a doctor may perform a biopsy, which involves removing a small area of skin for further evaluation in a laboratory.4 Analyzing a biopsy helps the doctor understand whether melanocytes, the cells that pigment skin, are missing or malfunctioning.2 Depending on the type of vitiligo diagnosed, a doctor may order blood tests or evaluations for other conditions related to vitiligo. Many people with vitiligo are otherwise healthy, but some types of vitiligo can be associated with a higher risk for thyroid problems and various autoimmune conditions.4,6
If you are diagnosed with generalized vitiligo, the doctor may also recommend visits to an ophthalmologist (eye specialist) or audiologist (hearing specialist).4 Melanocytes are found in the eyes and inner ears as well as the skin, and cells in these areas can be impacted by vitiligo too.6
Your doctor may be able to rule many of these conditions quickly based on a visual exam, your medical and family history, or simple blood tests.
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FAQs
Is there a cure for vitiligo?
There is not presently a cure for vitiligo, but there are treatment options available that can slow the process of depigmentation and return color to the skin in some people.3 Learn more about treatment options for vitiligo.
If I’m diagnosed with vitiligo, will my children have it too?
It is unlikely that your children will also have vitiligo.1 Only about 6 percent of people with vitiligo also have an affected first-degree relative.7 Read more about causes and risk factors for vitiligo.
References
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Alison has nearly a decade of experience writing about chronic health conditions, mental health, and women's health. Learn more about her here. |
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Dr. Richard H. Huggins is the author of numerous journal articles and chapters studying treatments and quality of life for people with vitiligo and other skin conditions. Learn more about him here. |
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