What Causes Vitiligo and Is It Contagious?

What is Vitiligo?

 

Vitiligo is a skin condition caused by abnormalities in melanocytes (cells responsible for producing skin pigment).

These cells are destroyed or stop producing melanin, resulting in white patches on the skin.

 

Causes

 

The exact cause is unknown, but it may be associated with:

๐ Autoimmune disorders (the body attacks its own cells)

๐ Thyroid disease

๐ Vitamin B12 deficiency

๐ Adrenal gland disorders

๐ Lymphatic and skin cancers

๐ Environmental triggers such as chemicals, sunlight, and stress

 

Who is Affected?

 

๐ Can occur in people of all genders

๐ Most cases begin before age 40

๐ Not contagious

 

Symptoms

 

White patches on the skin that gradually enlarge

Irregular or well-defined shapes

May appear on:

๐ Face

๐ Hands

๐ Feet

๐ Genitals

Around the eyes or mouth

Hair in affected areas may turn white

In some cases, it may spread across the body (universal vitiligo)

 

Treatment

 

Vitiligo cannot be completely cured, but treatment can improve appearance and slow progression.

 

1. Medications

 

๐ Topical steroids

๐ Calcineurin inhibitors

 

2. Phototherapy (UV Light Therapy)

 

๐ Helps restore pigmentation

๐ Requires consistent treatment for 1-2 years

 

3. Photochemotherapy (PUVA)

 

๐ Combines medication with UV exposure

๐ Enhances melanin production

 

4. Depigmentation

 

๐ Used in extensive cases

๐ Lightens remaining normal skin to match affected areas

 

5. Surgical Options

 

๐ Skin grafting

๐ Micropigmentation (tattooing)
 

Summary

 

Vitiligo is a non-contagious skin condition caused by loss of pigment.

 

 

 

 

 

source : Synphaet Ramintra Hospital
**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team