Depigmentation Disorders (Vitiligo)

Depigmentation Disorders (Vitiligo)



Basic Information image



Definition




• Leukoderma: Depigmentation of the skin


• Leukotrichia: Depigmentation of the hair


• Reticulated leukotrichia: Cross-hatched or netlike pattern of leukotrichia


• Spotted leukotrichia: Individual small areas of leukotrichia



Synonym(s)




• Vitiligo: Idiopathic depigmentation; this is an overall term that includes both leukoderma and leukotrichia


• “Snowflakes”



Epidemiology



Species, Age, Sex




• Most common in horses but may be seen in other Equidae as well.


• Mostly in young horses but may be seen in any age


• Genetics and breed predisposition


• Most commonly seen in (gray) Arabian horses and Shires, but any breed can be affected

• The condition may be hereditary.


Associated Conditions and Disorders


A subform of equine vitiligo: Arabian fading syndrome or “pinky syndrome”



Clinical Presentation



Disease Forms/Subtypes




• Idiopathic vitiligo


• Leukoderma


• Leukotrichia


• Asymptomatic reticulated leukotrichia


• Hyperesthetic leukotrichia: A painful subform of reticulated leukotrichia. This may be an unusual form of erythema multiforme (associated with herpes virus infection or vaccinations).



History, Chief Complaint


Various degrees of depigmentation affecting the hair, skin, or both



Physical Exam Finding




• Gradually expanding depigmented macules


• Distribution of lesions may be symmetrical or segmental.


• Lesions typically affect the lips, muzzle, and eyelids; less commonly, the anus, vulva, sheath, and hooves may be affected or lesions may be generalized.


• Leukotrichia without leukoderma is common.


• No preexisting lesions in affected areas


• Pruritus is absent.


• Depigmentation may wax and wane but is usually permanent.


• Occasionally, lesions become repigmented.


• Usually nonpainful except in the early stages of hyperesthetic leukotrichia during which crusts may be present that get replaced by white hair


• Arabian fading syndrome: A form of equine vitiligo that develops in young (1–2 years of age) Arabians, more commonly in grey animals. It is characterized by round, depigmented macules at mucocutaneous junctions and is commonly permanent. If a mare develops the condition during pregnancy or shortly after parturition, the foal may be at higher risk for future development of vitiligo.

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  2. Hematuria
  3. Polyarthritis and Polysynovitis
  4. False Dandelion/Flat Weed Toxicosis

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Jul 24, 2016 | Posted by in SMALL ANIMAL | Comments Off on Depigmentation Disorders (Vitiligo)

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