Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study of the Utility of Dermoscopy in Assessing the Activity and Stability of Vitiligo

Abstract

Introduction: Dermoscopy is an important noninvasive tool that helps to determine the stability and activity of vitiligo. Various dermoscopic findings help classify the disease as stable or unstable. This is important for the management of the disease, as surgical management requires disease stability. Objectives: We aimed to describe the dermoscopic findings in vitiligo and to assess the frequency of various dermoscopic findings in stable and unstable vitiligo. Methods: This was a hospital-based, cross-sectional, descriptive study of 100 vitiligo patients and various dermoscopic findings. Results are expressed as percentages. Results: The most common dermoscopic findings in stable vitiligo patches were sharp border, marginal and perifollicular pigmentation, and reticulate pigment network. Findings such as polka dot appearance, starburst appearance, comet tail, and satellite lesions were seen in unstable vitiligo patches. Conclusions: Dermoscopy is extremely helpful in determining the stability of vitiligo patches.

Keywords

• Vitiligo
• Dermoscopy
• activity of vitiligo
• stability of vitiligo