Environmentally Induced Vitiligo (Leucoderma) from Depigmenting Agents and Chemicals

Abstract

Depigmentation of the skin due to the melanocytotoxic or melanocytocidal properties of certain chemicals, particularly alkylated phenols and catechols, is now a well recognized and disfiguring occupational skin disorder. Recovery is often minimal. The chemicals responsible may be absorbed systemically causing widespread patches of depigmentation indistinguishable from natural vitiligo. Similar problems can arise from the injudicious use of skin lightening creams. The capacity of different melanotoxic chemicals to cause depigmentation varies and may be enhanced under certain conditions. The use and depigmenting properties of these chemicals are, therefore, discussed in depth together with methods of investigating and preventing environmentally induced vitiligo.