Interferon-induced vitiligo in hepatitis C patients: a case series.

BACKGROUND: Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease characterized by depigmented patches and macules. It is associated with many autoimmune diseases, the most common of which is thyroid disease. The association between Interferon (IFN) therapy and vitiligo is rarely reported in the literature, despite its common usage in hepatitis B viral infection, hepatitis C viral infection (HCV), hematological malignancies and melanoma. CASE: We are reporting eight cases of vitiligo that appeared after treating HCV with IFN. CONCLUSION: Interferon unmasks vitiligo in susceptible individuals.