Public safety investigators are saying the masked gunman and killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson suffers from vitiligo.
Vitiligo is a skin condition where melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment, are destroyed or stop functioning, leading to white patches on the skin. It is believed to be an autoimmune disorder but may also be triggered by genetic, oxidative, or environmental factors.
This medical condition can affect people of all skin types and may also cause premature graying of hair. While not life-threatening or contagious, it can have a significant emotional and psychological impact due to its visible nature. Treatments like topical steroids, phototherapy, and emerging therapies aim to restore pigmentation or manage the appearance of affected areas.