Skin Pigmentation Disorders

Several skin pigmentation disorders impact children differently. At Sammy Kim, MD, we believe knowing about these conditions helps us provide the most caring, personalized approach.

Vitiligo (pronounced “vih-tih-LY-go”) is an autoimmune condition where pigment-producing cells, called melanocytes, stop functioning in certain areas, causing pale, irregular patches.

Though it can affect self-esteem, vitiligo is harmless medically and not contagious.

Melanocytes reside in the epidermis and produce melanin, which colors the skin. When these cells lose function, lighter spots called macules appear, often on sun-exposed skin like:

• Face and hands
• Elbows, knees, groin folds
• Skin around body openings such as eyes, nostrils, navel, and genital areas

Sometimes children with vitiligo may also notice premature hair graying or lip depigmentation.

Vitiligo Diagnosis & Treatment

Doctors usually diagnose vitiligo by examining the affected skin. If uncertain, a skin biopsy might be performed.

While there’s no cure, treatments help manage appearance, including:

• Topical corticosteroids
• Calcineurin inhibitors applied to skin
• Narrowband UVB phototherapy
• Camouflage options like microskin or Dermablend
• Emotional counseling and support

Early care tailored to your child’s needs can make a difference.

Albinism is a genetic condition where melanin production is deficient, leading to very light skin, hair, and eyes. Children with albinism often have pale blue or pinkish eyes and fair skin, which is very sensitive to sunlight.

While albinism doesn’t cause direct health dangers, it can affect vision since melanin helps eye development.

Albinism Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis usually involves a physical exam and genetic testing. Starting care early is important to protect your child.

Eye care includes:

• Regular visits to an eye specialist
• Wearing UV-protective glasses
• Managing eye movement disorders like nystagmus

Sun protection involves:

• Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
• Seeking shade whenever possible
• Sun-safe clothing and hats
• Routine skin exams

Nevus depigmentosus is a birthmark appearing as pale patches on the skin present from infancy. Unlike vitiligo, which develops over time, these patches remain stable and don’t spread.

They typically have irregular, lighter-colored borders but do not cause medical issues.

Nevus Depigmentosus Diagnosis & Treatment

A dermatologist usually diagnoses this condition by visual exam, looking for:

• White patches present since birth
• Stable size and shape over time
• Normal skin texture and sensitivity in the affected area
• No darker borders around the patch

Treatment is usually unnecessary but topical options can be discussed for cosmetic concerns.

Café au Lait spots are flat, light to dark brown birthmarks that can appear at birth or early childhood. They have smooth or defined edges and vary widely in size.

Common features include:

• Located on torso, limbs, and buttocks
• Round or oval shapes, sized from a few millimeters to over 20 cm
• Spots may increase in number or size as the child grows
• Typically painless and non-itchy

While mostly harmless, multiple spots might indicate conditions like neurofibromatosis.

Café au Lait Spots Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis is by visual exam. If many spots appear or other symptoms show, further testing might be advised.

Treatment is usually not needed, but laser removal can be an option for cosmetic reasons.

Conditions like vitiligo, albinism, nevus depigmentosus, and café au lait spots require thoughtful, caring approaches tailored to children’s unique skin.

At Sammy Kim, MD, we’re committed to offering trusted, compassionate care designed around each child’s needs.

We’ll partner with you to find the best ways to help your child feel comfortable and confident in their skin.

Call Sammy Kim, MD at (818) 789-0941 or contact us online to schedule your visit.