Interferon-induced vitiligo in a patient with chronic viral hepatitis C infection

Dermatology. 1996;193(1):65-6. doi: 10.1159/000246208.

Abstract

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease characterized by depigmentation of the skin due to destruction of melanocytes. Interferons have been used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C and some malignancies. We report interferon alpha-2a-induced vitiligo in a male patient with chronic active hepatitis C. All skin lesions disappeared completely without requiring therapy after discontinuation of interferon. This case suggests that vitiligo may be developed during interferon therapy as a side effect.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chronic Disease
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Drug Eruptions / diagnosis
  • Drug Eruptions / etiology
  • Hepatitis C / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Interferons / adverse effects*
  • Interferons / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Vitiligo / chemically induced*
  • Vitiligo / diagnosis

Substances

  • Interferons