What are some common medical conditions that can cause changes in skin pigmentation?
There are several medical conditions that can cause changes in skin pigmentation. Some of the most common conditions include:
- Vitiligo: This autoimmune condition causes the skin to lose pigmentation, resulting in white patches or depigmentation on the skin.
- Melasma: This condition causes brown or gray patches on the face, typically due to hormonal changes or sun exposure.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: This occurs as a result of skin inflammation or injury, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis.
- Albinism: This genetic condition affects the production of melanin, resulting in little or no pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes.
- Tinea versicolor: This fungal infection can cause patches of skin to become lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.
- Addison's disease: This hormonal disorder can cause a darkening of the skin, particularly in areas of the body that are exposed to the sun.
- Drug-induced pigmentation: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, antipsychotics, or chemotherapy drugs, can cause changes in skin pigmentation.