Vitiligo is a pigmentation disorder wherein cells that make pigment (melanocytes) in the skin are destroyed. Owing to this, white patches start appearing on the skin in different parts of the body. The same patches also appear on the mucous membranes (tissues which line the inner part of the mouth and nose) as well as the retina (inner layer of the eyeball).
Symptoms of Vitiligo
People having vitiligo can visually see white patches on their skin which are mostly found in areas where body is exposed to the sun, including hands, feet, arms, face, and lips. The other parts of the body where white patches can appear are the groin and armpits, and near the mouth, nostrils, navel, genitals and rectum.
Vitiligo usually appears in one of the following three patterns:
- Focal pattern — depigmentation limited to one or only a few areas
- Segmental pattern — depigmented patches that develop on one side of the body
- Generalized pattern — the most common pattern. Depigmentation occurs symmetrically on both sides of the body.
Treatment
It is important for patients to understand the nature and unpredictable course of this disease. A well-balanced nutritious diet with right quantity and quality of vitamins and minerals are essential. Avoid emotional stress, physical & chemical damage to skin, and excessive Vitamin C.
Medical treatment includes
- Psoralens –Natural or synthetic with sun exposure
- Phenylalamine
- NBUVB, PUVA- Photothearapy under medical supervision.
Other Drugs
- Cortico steroids
- Levamisole
- Placental Extracts
- Dapsone