Hypopigmentaationa

Hypopigmentaationa, widely understood as hypopigmentation, refers to patches of skin that are lighter than the surrounding areas due to reduced melanin production or loss of pigment cells (melanocytes). It is distinct from depigmentation, which denotes complete loss of pigment. The term hypopigmentaationa is not standard in dermatology.

Common causes include congenital conditions such as albinism (reduced melanin production from birth), or syndromic conditions affecting melanocytes. Acquired forms arise after inflammation or injury (post-inflammatory hypopigmentation), infections (tinea versicolor/pityriasis versicolor), fungal infections with Malassezia, medications and chemicals (hydroquinone, retinoids), and autoimmune diseases or scarring. Vitiligo typically causes depigmented patches but can begin as hypopigmented areas.

Diagnosis is clinical and supported by Wood's lamp examination, which can accentuate hypopigmented areas; dermoscopy; and sometimes skin biopsy or fungal testing (KOH preparation) to identify infectious causes. History of inflammation, infection, or exposure guides workup.

Treatment targets the underlying cause and cosmetic concerns. Inflammatory or post-inflammatory forms may improve with time; sun protection is advised. Antifungal therapy for tinea versicolor; topical steroids or calcineurin inhibitors or phototherapy for vitiligo or extensive hypopigmentation; laser or surgical approaches are reserved for select cases. Cosmetic options, such as makeup or pigment-costuming creams, can help reduce contrast.

Prognosis varies by cause. Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation may fade over months to years; some congenital forms are permanent. Hypopigmented patches are often more noticeable in individuals with darker skin tones and do not usually signal systemic disease.