Pediatric disorders of pigmentation commonly seen in skin of color

Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2016 Dec;35(4):191-200. doi: 10.12788/j.sder.2016.064.

Abstract

There are certain disorders of hyper- and hypopigmentation that are more common in children with skin of color. It is imperative that practitioners can swiftly and accurately diagnose these pigmentary disorders to prevent delay in treatment and enhance quality of life. Pigmentary disorders have many etiologies and may present similarly in the clinical setting; however treatment varies widely and is dependent on accurate diagnosis. Herein, we present a review of common disorders of hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation in children with skin of color. We aim to provide physicians with information that can enhance clinical detection of common pigmentary disorders in this vulnerable population.

Keywords: disorders of pigmentation; hyperpigmentation; hypopigmentation; pediatric pigment disorders.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Humans
  • Hyperpigmentation* / epidemiology
  • Hyperpigmentation* / pathology
  • Hypopigmentation* / epidemiology
  • Hypopigmentation* / pathology
  • Racial Groups
  • Skin Pigmentation*