ABSTRACT
Many disorders result in disturbances of pigment formation by the melanocytes
(Mosher et al., 1987). Hypomelanosis or a decrease in the formation of the
pigment melanin may be caused by many disorders. Leukoderma, derived from
the Greek terms, λευκο white + δερµα skin, due to chemical exposure has been associated with several different classes of compounds; most being phenols or
thiols. These chemicals are useful as antioxidants and find utility in rubbers
and plastics, in foods, and as polymerization inhibitors in monomers. Because
of the widespread use of these chemicals, it is important to examine the effects
of exposure and the mechanism of depigmentation.
