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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Loss Of Pigmentation On Right Breast And Having A History Of Breast Cancer?

I have white spots, or lack of pigmentation on my right breast, first noticed a week ago. History of breast cancer 5 years ago, partial mastectomy. Today I saw my radiation oncologist, last visit, and he did not know what it is. He recommended seeing a dermatologist at U of M Medical Center.
posted on Sat, 14 Feb 2015
Twitter Thu, 5 Mar 2015 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 9 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on
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Pathologist and Microbiologist,  's  Response
Hello and welcome to HCM,
Development of white spots is not due to previous breast cancer or radiation therapy.
White spots in develop in skin conditions most common being vitiligo.
Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder of skin in which there is loss of pigmentation in patches all over the body especially around the orifices.
Your oncologist is right in referring you to a skin specialist.
If the white lesions are due to vitiligo, immunosuppressants will be required to treat the condition.
Since, vitiligo is an auto-immune disorder immune-suppressors will be required for its management.

Thanks and take care
'Dr Shailja Puri
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What Causes Loss Of Pigmentation On Right Breast And Having A History Of Breast Cancer?

Hello and welcome to HCM, Development of white spots is not due to previous breast cancer or radiation therapy. White spots in develop in skin conditions most common being vitiligo. Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder of skin in which there is loss of pigmentation in patches all over the body especially around the orifices. Your oncologist is right in referring you to a skin specialist. If the white lesions are due to vitiligo, immunosuppressants will be required to treat the condition. Since, vitiligo is an auto-immune disorder immune-suppressors will be required for its management. Thanks and take care Dr Shailja Puri