Vitiligo: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
A study featured in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology found that vitiligo is quite common in India, affecting between 0.46% and 8.8% of the population. Vitiligo is a persistent skin condition characterised by patches of the skin losing their pigment. If not treated promptly, it can spread across different parts of the skin. This article will discuss in detail the vitiligo disease, its causes, types, symptoms, and prevention strategies.
What is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo disease is a chronic skin condition in which areas of the skin lose their colour (pigment), resulting in uneven white patches. Despite the change in colour, the skin feels normal.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, there are two main types of vitiligo disease:
1. Non-segmental Vitiligo
Non-segmental vitiligo is the condition where patches typically appear on both sides of the body, such as on both knees or both hands. It is the most common type of vitiligo disease.
2. Segmental Vitiligo
Also known as unilateral vitiligo, this type affects only one side or part of the body, causing the skin in that area to lose its colour.
What are the Causes of Vitiligo Disease?
Vitiligo occurs when the immune system destroys the cells responsible for producing brown pigment (melanocytes). This destruction is believed to be caused by an autoimmune issue, where the immune system, which usually protects the body from infections, mistakenly attacks and destroys healthy tissue. Although vitiligo’s exact cause remains unknown, several factors are thought to contribute to its development:
- Genetic factors: According to the Vitiligo Society, about 30% of individuals with vitiligo have family members who also have the condition, indicating a genetic component.
- Neurogenic factors: The release of certain substances by nerve endings in the skin can be toxic to melanocytes, leading to the development of vitiligo.
- Environmental triggers: Factors such as sunburn, exposure to certain chemicals, and emotional stress can trigger vitiligo in individuals genetically predisposed to the condition.
- Oxidative stress: An imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants within the body can lead to cellular damage, including melanocytes, which can potentially lead to vitiligo.
What are the Symptoms of Vitiligo?
One of the main symptoms of vitiligo is the appearance of milky-white patches on the skin. These patches can emerge anywhere on the body and may vary in size and shape. Other symptoms include:
- Patchy loss of skin colour: This is the most obvious sign, typically starting on areas exposed to the sun, such as hands, feet, arms, and face.
- Premature hair whitening: This can occur on the scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows, and beard.
- Loss of colour in the tissues inside the mouth and nose: This is less common but can occur in some individuals.
- Changes in the colour of the retina: The retina, which is the inner layer of the eyeball, can also be affected.
Vitiligo usually starts with a small area and spreads over time. The progression of the disease varies from person to person. Some may experience rapid and extensive loss of skin colour, while others may see a slow progression over several years.
How is Vitiligo Diagnosed?
Diagnosing vitiligo typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history. Dermatologists may use the following methods to diagnose vitiligo:
- Wood’s lamp examination: This involves using ultraviolet light to highlight areas of depigmentation on the skin, making it easier to see the extent of the condition.
- Skin biopsy: In some cases, a small skin sample may be extracted and examined under a microscope to rule out other skin conditions.
- Blood tests: These may be conducted to check for underlying autoimmune conditions, such as thyroid disease, that are often associated with vitiligo.
- Eye exam: Since vitiligo can affect the retina, an eye exam may be performed to check for changes in pigmentation.
How to Prevent Vitiligo?
While it may not be possible to prevent vitiligo entirely, below are the few steps individuals can take to minimise their risk or manage the condition effectively.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure by staying in shaded areas.
- Wear clothes that shield the skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Apply a sunscreen that is water-resistant and shields against UVB and UVA rays, with an SPF of 30 or higher, on exposed skin.
- Since vitiligo is an autoimmune disease, it is recommended to manage stress and maintain a balanced, nutritious diet.
- Minimise stress and take precautions to avoid injuries, as these can worsen vitiligo.
Vitiligo is a complex skin disorder that can significantly impact an individual’s physical and emotional well-being. Since vitiligo is said to be associated with other autoimmune diseases, like Addison’s disease, thyroid disorders, pernicious anaemia, and type 1 diabetes, individuals with vitiligo must prioritise regular checkups. Individuals must consult their healthcare providers and book a thyroid or diabetes test with Dr Lal PathLabs today.
FAQs
1. Is vitiligo contagious?
No, vitiligo is not contagious.
2. Can vitiligo be cured completely?
While no cure exists for vitiligo, various treatments can manage symptoms and restore skin pigmentation. Options include topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, and surgical procedures like skin grafting.
