Vitiligo: What it is, Symptoms and Treatment

Vitiligo is a common autoimmune disease. It is a pigmentation disorder characterized by the development of white patches on the skin.

Vitiligo: What it is and how it is treated

Vitiligo is a chronic disease characterized by the appearance of white patches on the skin.

What is vitiligo? Vitiligo is a chronic disease characterized by the appearance of white patches on the skin. These white patches are the result of non-functional melanocytes at the site of their appearance. Melanocytes produce a substance called melanin , which is responsible for skin color. When melanocytes stop functioning, the color fades from the skin (depigmentation), leaving it white. The patient feels their skin is normal; however, the stress caused by the aesthetic appearance of the disease creates psychological effects. The extent and stage of depigmentation of white patches cannot be predicted and they can appear on many parts of the body, sometimes affecting the hair growth in those areas. Vitiligo is characterized as a chronic disease, is not contagious, and most importantly, is not life-threatening.

It affects all skin types, although, as is logical, it is more discernible on darker skin tones.

Who does vitiligo affect? Vitiligo affects 0.5 to 2% of the global population. Vitiligo can appear in individuals of both sexes, regardless of age and ethnicity, although its symptoms, patches and spots, usually appear before the age of 30. It is estimated that approximately half of vitiligo cases appear before the age of 20.

Causes of Vitiligo Although the exact cause of vitiligo is not known, scientists have concluded that it is an autoimmune disease. A mistaken “command” to the immune system leads it to attack and destroy melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the natural pigment essential for our skin color. The process of vitiligo onset can also be triggered by factors such as: Genetic predisposition. Intense stress, emotional or physical, such as after an injury. A weakened cellular environment. Exposure to toxins. Digestive disorders.

Localized * * * Focal Discoloration is observed in a specific area and is usually the result of an injury that developed into vitiligo. Segmental It occurs mainly on one side of the body, but does not cover a large area and the spots are not large in size. Generalized: * * * Acrofacial Manifests on the hands, feet, and face. Mucosal White patches appear around the mucous glands of the body. Universal Almost the entire skin surface shows depigmentation. It should be noted that vitiligo is an unpredictable skin condition. No one knows its course. Sometimes the spread of white spots stops without the need for treatment, but usually its progression is gradual.

Vitiligo & Symptoms The main symptom of vitiligo is areas of discoloration and the appearance of white patches (white spots) that appear on different parts of the body. When vitiligo starts, symptoms usually appear: On the hands On the feet On the face Also, in some cases, vitiligo appears on the mucous membranes, specifically: Inside the mouth Inside the nose On the genitals Some other symptoms of Vitiligo include: Appearance of gray or white hair on the scalp, eyelashes, and beard in individuals under 35 years old. Change in the color of the retina. Discoloration inside the nose and mouth.

Predisposition to Autoimmune Diseases & Vitiligo Individuals suffering from vitiligo have an increased chance of developing other autoimmune diseases such as thyroid disorders, alopecia areata, diabetes, and anemia.

Diagnosing Vitiligo Vitiligo is diagnosed by a dermatologist through clinical examination and a comprehensive medical history. The doctor will examine the skin under the light of a special diagnostic lamp (Wood's Lamp), which can more easily detect skin discolorations. Your dermatologist is likely to request blood tests, as individuals with vitiligo may also develop other autoimmune conditions such as thyroid disorders, as well as autoimmune disorders affecting the joints, muscles, and connective tissue.

Vitiligo: Treatment & Management After the diagnosis of vitiligo, your dermatologist will discuss with you the therapeutic approach you can choose. Vitiligo treatment is always individualized and is shaped according to the type, extent of symptoms, and the patient's preferences. The management of vitiligo is an extremely challenging endeavor. Vitiligo treatment generally has two goals: To restore skin color. To limit the spread of white patches on the body or face. Approaches to treat vitiligo may include: Topical Medications Medications (creams, ointments, etc.) that slow down the progression of vitiligo and help melanocytes regenerate and restore skin color. Depigmentation Therapy Depigmentation therapies are chosen less frequently, mainly by individuals with extensive white patches who do not wish to continue color restoration therapy. Phototherapy Phototherapy is a modern method for treating vitiligo symptoms and restoring natural skin color. With phototherapy, the skin is exposed to ultraviolet radiation for a specific period. Phototherapy for vitiligo is particularly effective in the face and neck areas. Surgical Intervention Surgical intervention, which may include skin grafting or cell transplantation, is another therapeutic approach, especially for individuals who do not have active vitiligo. Before starting vitiligo treatment, you should know 3 important things: Vitiligo treatment works slowly. Vitiligo can be persistent. Treatment addresses skin depigmentation, not the disease itself. Its results may fade and require maintenance therapies.

Preventing Vitiligo Worsening By taking care of your skin, you can protect it from the spread of vitiligo: Protecting your skin from the sun prevents sunburn, which can worsen vitiligo. Seek shaded areas, apply sunscreen daily, and wear appropriate clothing. Never use a solarium. If you wish to add color to your skin, prefer makeup. Avoid cuts, scratches, and patches. They can create new spots. Boost your immune system with healthy habits. Take care of your mental health and self-confidence.

How is vitiligo treated?

Vitiligo cannot be cured. Depending on the type and the assessment of the symptoms you are experiencing, your dermatologist will recommend the appropriate treatment.

Is every white spot on my skin vitiligo?

No. Not every white spot on the skin is vitiligo. Your dermatologist is responsible for confirming whether you have vitiligo or another skin condition.

Is vitiligo painful?

No, vitiligo is not painful. However, the areas where there is skin discoloration are more sensitive and can develop a painful sunburn.

Can vitiligo be transmitted?

No, Vitiligo is not a transmissible or infectious disease. Since it is not an infection and is not caused by microbes, a person suffering from Vitiligo cannot transmit it.

Are people with vitiligo more likely to get sunburned?

**Yes**, the truth is that in the affected areas, the lack of melanin does not prevent the sun's rays from penetrating deeper into the skin, thus making people with vitiligo more vulnerable to the dangers of solar radiation. **In any case, however, the use of sunscreen is mandatory for everyone, and frequent reapplication.**