Skin
Vitiligo
Loss of skin pigment producing well-defined white patches.
What is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo occurs when pigment-producing cells stop functioning, leaving smooth, well-defined white patches. It is not painful or contagious, but it can be visually and emotionally significant.
Symptoms
- Milky-white, well-demarcated patches
- Common on hands, face, around the mouth and eyes
- Whitening of hair within a patch in some cases
- Patches that may enlarge or remain stable
Common Causes
- An autoimmune process affecting pigment cells
- Genetic predisposition
- Skin trauma or friction at the site
- Association with other autoimmune conditions in some patients
Who May Be Affected
Vitiligo can begin at any age, often before the age of thirty, and affects all skin types.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is clinical and may be supported by examination under specialised light. Screening for associated autoimmune conditions is sometimes advised.
Treatment Options
- Topical immunomodulatory treatment
- Phototherapy in suitable patients
- Surgical pigment transfer techniques in stable disease
- Camouflage and photoprotection guidance
- Ongoing monitoring for stability and response
Prevention & Skincare Advice
- Protect depigmented areas with sunscreen and clothing
- Avoid repeated friction or trauma to affected sites
- Report new or spreading patches promptly
When to See a Dermatologist
See a dermatologist as soon as white patches appear, since early assessment guides which options are appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Information on this website is for education only and does not replace an in-person consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Treatment suitability is determined after consultation.
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