Getting to Know Vitiligo: Embracing Uniqueness and Diversity

• November 20, 2012
• By bioget-admin
• In

Leucoderma or Vitiligo is a pigmentation disorder that affects the skin and mucous tissues. It is characterized as circumscribed patches of white skin in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is a progressive condition in which all or some of the melanocytes are destroyed.

What is Vitiligo?

Leucoderma or Vitiligo is a pigmentation disorder that affects the skin and mucous tissues. It is characterized as circumscribed patches of white skin in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is a progressive condition in which all or some of the melanocytes are destroyed.

Cause:

It is not known what causes vitiligo, but it is thought to be caused by genetic and non-genetic elements. It is believed to be caused by autoimmune mechanisms.

Risk Factors:

Vitiligo can be caused by:

• Genetics – People with a family history of vitiligo are more likely to develop the condition than those without a family history.
• Drugs – It is believed that drugs can lower immune response that can cause vitiligo
• Stress – Another important factor that can lower the immune system
• Chemicals – People who are directly exposed to chemicals, such as painters and factory workers, have a higher risk of developing this disorder.
• Hormonal imbalance
• Autoimmune Diseases– Conditions like hypothyroidism or diabetes.

Vitiligo Facts:

• Vitiligo does not have a fatal outcome
• This is a noncommunicable disease (noninfectious). There is a lot of stigma associated with it.
• Around 4 % worldwide are affected by this disease.

Vitiligo Symptoms:

This condition is characterized by white patches or macules. The spots can be a single spot or multiple spots with varying shapes. It can start as a white spot that can grow larger or more numerous. The most common areas affected are:

• Limbs
• Abdomen
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• Mucous membranes – lips, genitals (genitals), gingiva, nipples, and areolas

Diagnosis:

The diagnosis is based on medical history, a physical examination, and a biopsy of the depigmented patches.

Our Natural Treatments for Vitiligo