Dermatology and Cosmetic Medicine

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterized by the loss of pigment, resulting in white patches on various parts of the body. This occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color), are destroyed. The exact cause of vitiligo is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors.Vitiligo can affect people of all skin types and ages, though it often appears before the age of 30. The condition typically manifests as well-defined, depigmented patches that can occur anywhere on the body, including the face, hands, feet, and genitals. It can also affect hair, turning it white or gray if the melanocytes in the hair follicles are involved.There are different types of vitiligo, including segmental (affecting one side or part of the body) and non-segmental (more common, with symmetrical patches). The progression of the disease is unpredictable, and the extent of pigment loss can vary widely among individuals.Diagnosis of vitiligo is primarily based on clinical examination, and sometimes a skin biopsy or blood tests are conducted to rule out other conditions. Although vitiligo is not physically painful, it can have significant psychological and social impacts due to its visible nature.Treatment options aim to restore color to the white patches or even out skin tone. These include topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, and in some cases, surgical procedures like skin grafting. Newer treatments, such as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and other immunomodulatory drugs are being researched and show promise.