Vitiligo is associated with which of the following conditions?

Prepare for the ASCP Pathology Assistant Exam. Study effectively with our diverse question formats, receive detailed explanations, and confidently advance towards your certification. Boost your readiness now!

Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin condition characterized by the loss of pigment cells (melanocytes), resulting in white patches on the skin. It is commonly associated with several autoimmune diseases due to shared underlying mechanisms involving the immune system.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that leads to hypothyroidism and has a known association with vitiligo. The immune response in Hashimoto’s can also target melanocytes, contributing to the skin condition.

Graves' disease, another autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid, can also occur alongside vitiligo. Like Hashimoto's, it indicates the presence of an autoimmune process, where the body's immune system may mistakenly attack not only thyroid tissue but also melanocytes.

Addison's disease, which involves adrenal insufficiency due to destruction of the adrenal cortex, is similarly associated with vitiligo. The mechanisms underlying Addison's disease also encompass autoimmune processes that can affect melanin production.

Considering the interconnectedness of these autoimmune conditions, it becomes clear why vitiligo can be associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease, and Addison's disease. The presence of vitiligo can serve as a marker for various autoimmune diseases, hence making "all of the above" the correct answer.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy