Patches of skin lose color or pigment due to the chronic (long-lasting) autoimmune disease vitiligo.
This occurs when melanocytes, the pigment-producing skin cells, are attacked and killed, turning the skin milky white.
The white spots of vitiligo typically show up symmetrically on both sides of your body, like both hands and both knees. There can occasionally be a sudden loss of color or pigment that may even cover a sizable region.
Vitiligo’s segmental subtype, which affects only one side or segment of your body, such as a leg, the side of your face, or an arm, is far less prevalent. This particular kind of vitiligo frequently starts young and worsens over time.
An autoimmune condition is vitiligo. The immune system typically functions to fight off and protect your body from infections, viruses, and germs. Immune cells mistakenly assault the body’s healthy tissues in those with autoimmune illnesses. Vitiligo sufferers may also be more prone to other autoimmune diseases.
Occasionally, a vitiligo patient may have relatives who also have the condition. Vitiligo has no known cure, however, therapies can stop its progression and reverse its symptoms, which may make the skin tone look more even.
How does vitiligo begin and develop?
The first signs of vitiligo are typically a few little white macules or patches, which may later spread over your body. Every region of your body, including your mucous membranes (the moist lining of your mouth, nose, vaginal, and rectal areas), your eyes, and your inner ears, can develop vitiligo. However, it usually starts on your hands, forearms, feet, and face.
Larger patches may continue to grow and expand, although they often remain in one spot for years. As specific parts of skin lose and develop color over time, the position of smaller macules varies throughout time.
Each person with vitiligo has a different amount of skin that is affected. While some people just get a few depigmented spots, others lose their skin color all over.
Vitiligo symptoms
Depigmentation, often known as loss of natural color or pigment, is the primary sign of vitiligo. Anywhere on your body, the depigmented patches might have the following effects:
On the hands, feet, arms, and face, milky-white patches of skin frequently form. The patches, though, can show up anywhere.
In regions where the skin is losing color, hair may become white. The scalp, brow, eyelashes, beard, and body hair are all susceptible to this.
mucous membranes, such as the mouth and nose.
Vitiligo patients may also develop:
Concerns about looks can lead to low self-esteem or a negative self-image, which can lower quality of life.
Uveitis is a broad word for swelling or inflammation of the eye.
Otitis media in the ear.
What causes vitiligo?
According to scientists, vitiligo is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s defense mechanisms target and kill melanocytes. Additionally, scientists are still researching how genes and family history may contribute to the development of vitiligo. Sunburn, mental anguish, or exposure to a chemical are just a few examples of events that can either cause or exacerbate vitiligo.
Exactly how is vitiligo identified?
Vitiligo is often diagnosed correctly by a visual examination conducted by a medical professional. A Wood lamp could be used by your doctor to examine your skin. Using an ultraviolet (UV) light that shines on your skin, this lamp can help your doctor distinguish between vitiligo and other skin diseases. Your healthcare professional could also inquire about your personal and family medical histories.
Who Develops Vitiligo?
Vitiligo can appear at any age and can affect anyone. But for many vitiligo sufferers, the white patches start to show up before the age of 20, and they can even start as early as childhood.
Vitiligo appears to be more prevalent in those with a family history of the condition or with certain autoimmune illnesses, such as:
Addison’s condition.
sickly anemia.
Psoriasis.
Arthritis rheumatica.
Lupus erythematosus is systemic.
thyroid condition.
diabetes type 1.
Also read: Knee Pain: How To Handle The Diagnosis And Treatment
Is vitiligo inherited?
While investigations on the origins of vitiligo are still being conducted, it has been found that roughly 30% of cases are inherited. This indicates that the disease is inherited, and you may get vitiligo from your biological relatives. Melanocyte cell function may be impacted by a variety of genetic alterations. You will exhibit vitiligo symptoms if a genetic mutation affects the cells that supply your skin pigment.
