Vitiligo Skin Disorder -- An Embarrassing Complaint

Vitiligo skin disorder results in patchy loss of skin pigment that affects approximately 1% of the population. It attacks people with dark or light skins, males and females alike. Most cases start before the age of 40.

Vitiligo can appear in patterns on the body as well as being scattered randomly over the skin. For instance it can be limited to one area or may only develop on one side of the body. If the scalp is affected, the hair in that area may lose it's colour and turn white.

Usually areas that are exposed to sunlight are most affected, for instance the arms, legs and face.

Vitiligo skin disorder can cause distress in the people who suffer from it. It is probably more noticeable on those with darker skins and can cause considerable embarrassment even though it can't be passed on from person to person. It's also possible for the white patches to spread to more areas of the body as the disorder progresses.

What causes vitiligo

Although nobody has found a definite cause of vitiligo, there are a few theories about what causes the loss of pigment. A fault in the immune system may be the cause. if a family member has the disorder, this may also increase the risk.

A serious trauma to the skin or severe sunburn may also trigger the disorder. Emotional distress has also been touted as a cause of vitiligo, probably due to the effect of stress on the immune system.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is relatively easy. Occasionally a doctor may recommend a biopsy or skin sample be taken to confirm that the skin contains no pigment producing cells or melanocytes, in order to rule out any other diseases or skin disorders. Vitiligo may be associated with  an overactive thyroid or a shortage of vitamin B12, so checks for these conditions should also be carried out.

Vitiligo treatments

Unfortunately here there is no easy answer, most treatments are geared to try and minimize the visibility of the white patches. Steroid creams are often prescribed, but these can take a long time to have any effect and can cause unwanted side effects. Psoralen Photochemotherapy (PUVA) is another treatment which involves taking the drug Psoralen orally, or having it applied to the vitiligo directly. Exposure to UV light will then repigment the skin. Care should be taken with this treatment to avoid burning of the skin. Other side effects are nausea and abnormal hair growth.

Depigmentation may be a viable option for those with severe cases of vitiligo. This involves removing the pigment from the unaffected skin so that all the skin looks the same. Depigmentation is done by application of  a substances which removes pigment from the skin. Side effects may include inflammation and itchiness.

Whether you choose to treat vitiligo or not, you need to take care with sun exposure. Always use a broad spectrum sunscreen outdoors on the white patches to prevent burning as the are extremely sensitive to UV light.

If you only have a mild case of vitiligo, covering with a cosmetic concealer that matches your skin tone may be the answer. Most of these types of creams, originally designed to cover birthmarks, give good coverage and won't wash off during swimming or bathing.

from vitiligo skin disorder to home

©copyright Just Natural Skincare 2006-2008 All rights Reserved