What is Vitiligo?

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a skin condition in which there is loss of pigment from localized areas of skin resulting in irregular skin coloration.

What are the causes and risk factors for developing Vitiligo?

Vitiligo appears to be an acquired condition and may appear at any age. There is an increased incidence in some families. Vitiligo is more noticeable in darker skinned individuals because of the contrast.

The cause of Vitiligo is unknown, but it is thought that the body attacks its own pigment cells causing them to be destroyed in local areas. This condition affects about 1% of the population. Lesions appear as flat de-pigmented areas with a darker border. The edges of these areas are sharply defined but irregular. Frequently affected areas are the face, elbows and knees, hands and feet and genitalia.

How is vitiligo diagnosed?

Examination is usually sufficient to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be needed to rule out other causes of pigment loss.

How is vitiligo treated?

Dr. Jennifer Janiga usually starts with a topical steroid for mild or localized disease. Newer topical medications such as Tacrolimus and Pimicrolimus may also be tried. For more extensive disease, light therapy or immunosuppression may help