by Sharon O'Connell

Created on: April 08, 2008   Last Updated: August 05, 2008

Vitiligo is a condition that causes the body to lose melanin, the pigment that determines the color the skin. Without melanin, milky-white patches appear on the skin. The degrees of depigmentation vary. The loss of pigment begins with small patches that spread overtime to cover larger areas.

Depigmentation usually occurs first on skin that is regularly exposed to the sun. The patches that vary in size and shape often appear to have a dark border. Premature graying of hair, lightening of mucous membranes inside mouth, and loss of color of the retina can also occur.

What causes Vitiligo?

The exact cause of vitiligo is unknown. The signs of vitiligo appear when melanin production stops or melanin producing cells die. One theory is that vitiligo is an auto-immune disorder where the body mistakenly attacks the melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) that give the skin color. A family history of vitiligo or other auto-immune disorders also increase the risk of developing the disorder.

Who gets Vitiligo?

Vitiligo affects an estimated 2-4 million Americans. It develops in both men and women of all races equally. Approximately half of all people who develop vitiligo experience some pigment loss before the age of 20.

People with Vitiligo are often at a greater risk of having increased/decreased thyroid function (hyperthyroidism/hypothyroidism), decreased adrenal function (Addison's disease), vitamin B12 deficiency (Pernicious anemia), round patches of hair loss (Alopecia Areata), and/or inflammation of the eyes (Uveitis).

Is there a cure for Vitiligo?

Although there is no cure for vitiligo, there are a number of treatment options that can slow down the process of depigmentation.

Symptoms

The main symptom of vitiligo is the appearance of white patches on the skin. Other symptoms include:
-Premature graying of hair, eyelashes, eyebrows or facial hair
-Lightening of mucous membranes inside the mouth
-Loss of color of the retina (inner layer of the eye)

How is Vitiligo Diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask you questions about your medical history. Tell your doctor if there is a history of vitiligo or other auto-immune diseases in your family. Other important factors in your medical history include graying of the hair before age 35. Your doctor should be made aware of any rashes, sunburns, or trauma that occurred two to three months before the onset of pigment loss. Be sure to include information on recent stress or illness.

Blood work and a biopsy of the affected skin may be taken in

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