Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes depigmentation of the skin due to the progressive loss of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). It results in milky-white patches (leukoderma) that can occur anywhere on the body. Vitiligo is not contagious, but it can have significant cosmetic, social, and emotional impacts, particularly in people with darker skin, where the contrast between affected and unaffected areas is more noticeable.
Prevalence: Affects 0.5–2% of the global population.
Cause: Likely a combination of genetic predisposition and autoimmune mechanisms, where the immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes.
Associated Conditions: Vitiligo is often linked to other autoimmune diseases like thyroid disorders, diabetes, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Onset: Most cases develop before age 30, with peaks in childhood (<10 years) and early adulthood (20–24 years).
Appearance: Patches of white, depigmented skin, often symmetrical and well-defined. The borders may appear inflamed, hyperpigmented, or normal.
Common Areas: Sun-exposed areas (face, hands), body folds (armpits, groin), areas prone to injury (knees, elbows), and around body openings (lips, nostrils).
Progression: Vitiligo spreads unpredictably, cycling through phases of spreading and stabilisation.
In darker skin tones, vitiligo is more visible and can lead to hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation after repigmentation, adding to emotional challenges.
Genetics: 20–30% of cases occur in individuals with a family history of vitiligo or other autoimmune diseases.
Autoimmune Connection: Conditions like thyroid disease, lupus, and diabetes are commonly associated.
Triggers: Emotional stress, skin injuries (cuts, burns, or friction), pregnancy, and certain medications may trigger or worsen vitiligo.
Although there is no cure for vitiligo, treatments can stabilise the condition, promote repigmentation, and improve quality of life.
Avoid skin injuries (cuts, burns, friction) to prevent new patches (Koebner phenomenon).
Use sunscreen to protect depigmented areas, prevent sunburn, and minimise the contrast between affected and unaffected skin.
Consider cosmetic camouflage: makeup, self-tanning products, or micropigmentation for visible areas.
Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and promote repigmentation in early-stage vitiligo.
Calcineurin Inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus): Ideal for sensitive areas like the face and groin.
Vitamin D Analogues: May enhance repigmentation when combined with other treatments.
Ruxolitinib Cream: A newer treatment targeting immune pathways, effective for non-segmental vitiligo.
Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB): The most effective light-based therapy for widespread vitiligo, promoting melanocyte activation.
Excimer Laser: Targets small, localised areas.
PUVA Therapy: Combines UVA light with a photosensitive medication.
Oral Steroids: Used short-term to control rapid progression.
Immunosuppressants: Methotrexate or cyclosporine for severe or resistant cases.
Afamelanotide: A melanocyte-stimulating hormone analog combined with phototherapy for faster results.
For stable vitiligo, surgical procedures like skin grafting, mini-punch grafts, or melanocyte transplantation can restore pigment.
Vitiligo often has a significant emotional and psychological impact. It can affect self-esteem, mental health, and social interactions. Support systems like counseling, family support, and cognitive behavioral therapy can help patients cope with the condition.
At our clinic, we provide comprehensive care that includes:
Diagnosis and personalised treatment plans.
Emotional support and psychological guidance.
Access to the latest medical advancements and therapies.
Book Your Consultation Today to start your journey toward healthier, even-toned skin!
Links
Home Care Programme for Vitiligo https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/home-care-programme/
Topical Therapy for Vitiligo https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/topical-therapy/
UVB Phototherapy for Vitiligo https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/uvb-phototherapy/
Systemic Therapy for Vitiligo https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/uvb-phototherapy/
Laser and Recell Therapy for Vitiligo https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/laser-recell/
Vitiligo in Australia https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/vitiligo-landscape-in-australia/
Cosmetic and Makeup for Vitiligo https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/cosmetics-and-makeup-for-vitiligo/
Vitiligo in Children https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/vitiligo-in-children/
Vitiligo and Body Image https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/vitiligo-and-body-image-in-australia/
Vitiligo and Sun Protection https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/sun-protection-and-skincare-tips-for-vitiligo-patients/
Anxiety and Depression related to Vitiligo https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/managing-vitiligo-stress-and-anxiety/
Vitiligo Treatment Options https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/vitiligo-treatment-options/
Can Vitiligo Spread? https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/can-vitiligo-spread/
Can Vitiligo be Cured? https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/can-vitiligo-be-cured/
What Causes Vitiligo? https://vitiligoclinics.com.au/vitiligo-support-guides-and-updates/what-causes-vitiligo/