MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION IN PIEBALDISM: A COMPREHENSIVE LITERATURE REVIEW OF DIAGNOSTIC APPROACHES

Background: Piebaldism is a rare autosomal dominant pigmentary disorder characterized by congenital absence of melanocytes, resulting in distinct hypopigmented areas on the skin and hair, notably the frontal scalp and anterior trunk.This comprehensive literature review aims to analyze the microscopic examination of piebaldism and evaluate various diagnostic approaches. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted through databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, focusing on histopathological features of piebaldism from 2014 to 2024. Result: The review revealed significant histopathological differences between piebaldism and other hypopigmentary disorders. Piebaldism is characterized by the complete absence of melanocytes in hypopigmented areas, while hypermelanotic regions retain functionally abnormal melanocytes. Unlike vitiligo, piebaldism lacks inflammatory infiltrates, reinforcing its classification as a genetic disorder. Conclusion: Understanding the unique microscopic characteristics of piebaldism is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. This knowledge facilitates the differentiation from other disorders, informing management strategies and contributing to improved outcomes for affected individuals. Further research into effective treatment modalities is warranted to enhance patient care.