Postinflammatory hypopigmentation

Postinflammatory hypopigmentation
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Hypopigmentation of the skin following inflammation
Complications	N/A
Onset	N/A
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	Inflammatory skin conditions, trauma, burns, infections
Risks	N/A
Diagnosis	Clinical diagnosis
Differential diagnosis	Vitiligo, Pityriasis alba, Tinea versicolor
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, cosmetic camouflage
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Postinflammatory hypopigmentation is a medical condition characterized by the lightening of skin color following a skin injury or inflammation. This condition is common and can affect individuals of all ages and skin types. It is often temporary, but can be permanent in some cases.

Causes

Postinflammatory hypopigmentation is caused by a decrease in melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, following skin inflammation or injury. This can occur as a result of various skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. It can also occur following skin treatments such as laser therapy or chemical peels.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of postinflammatory hypopigmentation is lighter patches of skin that appear following skin inflammation or injury. These patches can vary in size and location, and are often more noticeable in individuals with darker skin tones.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of postinflammatory hypopigmentation is typically made through a physical examination of the skin. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for postinflammatory hypopigmentation focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the skin inflammation or injury. This may involve treating the skin condition that led to the hypopigmentation, or avoiding skin treatments that can cause this condition. In some cases, topical treatments or light therapy may be used to help restore skin color.

See also

• Melanin
• Skin pigmentation
• Vitiligo