Vitiligo is a chronic skin disorder where white patches appear on the skin due to the loss of pigment (melanin). This happens when melanocytes—the cells responsible for producing melanin—are destroyed or stop functioning.
🧬 Origin of the Term:
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From Latin "vitium" meaning "blemish" or "defect"
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"Vitiligo" was first used by the Roman physician Aulus Cornelius Celsus in the 1st century AD.
🎯 Key Characteristics:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Skin depigmentation | White or pale patches that contrast with surrounding skin |
| Symmetrical or random | Can appear on both sides or just one side of the body |
| Common areas affected | Face, hands, arms, feet, genitals, and around body openings (mouth, eyes, etc.) |
| Hair depigmentation | May also affect hair in the areas (white/gray hair) |
| Progressive nature | May spread slowly over time or remain stable for years |
🔍 Causes (Not fully understood):
Vitiligo is thought to be multifactorial, including:
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Autoimmune reaction – The immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes.
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Genetic factors – Family history increases risk.
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Neurogenic factors – Possible nerve-related triggers.
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Oxidative stress – Accumulation of toxic substances in melanocytes.
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Environmental triggers – Sunburn, emotional stress, or skin injury can trigger or worsen it.
🔬 Types of Vitiligo:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Non-segmental (NSV) | Most common form (symmetric white patches) |
| Segmental (SV) | Affects one side or part of the body (often earlier onset) |
| Focal | Localized white patches, not widely spread |
| Universal | Rare, affects most of the body |
🧪 Diagnosis:
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Clinical observation
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Wood's lamp exam (UV light makes depigmented areas more visible)
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Skin biopsy (rarely needed)
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Blood tests (to check for autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease)
💊 Treatment Options:
Vitiligo cannot always be cured, but treatments can restore color or improve appearance:
| Treatment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Topical corticosteroids | Reduce inflammation and may help repigmentation |
| Calcineurin inhibitors | Used for sensitive areas like the face |
| Phototherapy (UVB) | Light therapy stimulates melanocyte activity |
| PUVA (Psoralen + UVA) | Uses UVA light with a light-sensitizing drug |
| Surgical treatments | Skin or melanocyte transplants in stable cases |
| Depigmentation | For widespread vitiligo; lightens remaining skin for uniform appearance |
| Cosmetic cover-ups | Makeup or self-tanning lotions for camouflage |
| Psychological support | For self-esteem and emotional coping |
❗ Complications:
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Increased risk of sunburn (due to lack of melanin)
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May be associated with other autoimmune diseases:
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Thyroid disorders
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Type 1 diabetes
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Pernicious anemia
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Alopecia areata
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Emotional/psychological distress
🛡️ Prevention & Management Tips:
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Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+)
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Avoid tanning beds and sunburns
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Wear protective clothing
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Seek emotional support if self-image is affected
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Monitor thyroid and autoimmune health if recommended by a doctor