Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by large white patches appearing on the skin's surface. The disorder can happen to any ethnicity but is more visible when someone has darker skin pigmentation. Between 2 and 4 million people in the United States suffer from vitiligo, according to the National Vitiligo Foundation.
Symptoms
With vitiligo, loss of pigment or color is seen on patches of skin. Patches are irregularly shaped and can be of all different sizes. Hair may prematurely lose color and begin to appear white. The mucous membranes inside the nose, mouth and lips may also begin to lose color. The inner portion of the eye, the retina, may appear to change color. Symptoms are generally first seen on areas that are commonly exposed to sunlight, such as the hands, face and arms. Between the ages of 10 and 20 is the common time period for symptoms to first appear.
Causes
Vitiligo is caused when the melanin in the skin is no longer produced by the body. The exact reason the body is no longer producing melanin is not know, but several theories exist. Genetics may play a role, as vitiligo is occasionally seen in more than one family member. Some medical professionals believe there is an immune system disorder that causes the skin to stop melanin production. Victims of vitiligo have reported trigger incidents of stress and sunburn prior to onset of symptoms.
Diagnosis
Examining your family medical history for vitiligo is necessary. Discuss with a medical professional any skin disorders or ailments that have occurred in the past including sunburns, premature aging of hair or autoimmune disorders. A small skin biopsy may be taken as well as blood samples.
Treatment
Treatment may not always be necessary. Light-skinned individuals who use sunscreen and avoid tanning can hide vitiligo. Darker-skinned individuals can use makeup or patches on nonpigmented skin. Corticosteroid topical treatments can return pigmentation to skin if started at the onset of the disease. Other topical treatments contain tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, which are recommended for small areas on the face and neck.
Light therapy, topical psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA), can be used to turn white patches darker if skin has less than 20 percent melanin loss. The UV light turns the patches pink. These areas will begin to darken over time. For patients with vitiligo on more than 20 percent of their body, oral psoralen is recommended in combination with light therapy. Monobenzene is a topical treatment to lighten the existing pigment to match the skin affected by vitiligo. Treatment continues until the skin is one uniform color.
Coping with the Disease
Because the disease strongly affects the way a person looks, mental and psychological support is necessary. A person should learn as much about the disease to understand the disease process. Work with a doctor who fully understands the disease process. Communicate your feeling such as frustration and depression with family members and your doctor. Talk with other victims of vitiligo and join a support group.
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