WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
People with vitiligo develop
stark white skin patches on various parts of the body. These
patches typically appear on the face, over bony surfaces such
as the elbows and knees, and on the hands, feet and genitalia.
The hair within these patches is also likely to turn white. The
condition typically affects people between the ages of 10 and
30, but it shows no racial or gender preference.
Causes
The whiteness seen in vitiligo is
due to the destruction and loss of pigment cells (melanocytes)
in the skin. Why this occurs is unknown, but it is more likely
to happen in people with diabetes, pernicious anemia, thyroid
problems, or poorly functioning adrenal glands. The problem
sometimes sets in following a physical trauma, particularly a
blow to the head.
Signs/Symptoms
The white patches produced by
vitiligo usually have sharp boundaries, and are often
symmetrical. The problem may be limited to a few small spots or
may spread to cover almost the entire body. The whitened areas
are prone to sunburn and, in a few people, may itch. The
condition is sometimes accompanied by premature graying of the
hair.
Care
Vitiligo is usually treated with
repigmentation therapy. Treatments for small areas typically
involve application of a medicated cream or liquid followed by
90 minutes under a ultraviolet A lamp. Larger areas are treated
with an oral medication and ultraviolet A. Localized treatments
may continue for up to 2 months at a time. Treatments for
widespread vitiligo may go on for 1 to 2
years.
People with vitiligo over more
than half of their body sometimes opt for
depigmentation therapy, in which a cream is applied to
unaffected skin to destroy pigment cells and create an even
skin tone. This form of treatment, however, is permanent and
causes extreme sensitivity to sunlight.
For people who can't tolerate
repigmentation therapy or don't respond to it, there are
cosmetic cover-up creams and tanning lotions that successfully
hide the problem without soiling clothing.
Risks
Aside from the emotional distress
caused by a change in appearance, there are no known health
risks associated with vitiligo.
WHAT YOU SHOULD
DO
-
Avoid sun exposure. The
vitiligo patches have no pigmentation to protect you from
sunburn and potential skin cancer. When you are in the sun,
use a high SPF sunblock.
-
If you choose repigmentation
therapy, take your medications exactly as prescribed by
your doctor.
-
If you plan to be in sunlight
after being exposed to ultraviolet light, apply
sunscreen.
-
If sunburn occurs,
discontinue therapy temporarily and apply wet dressings to
the affected areas for 15 to 20 minutes four or five times
a day. Afterwards, allow the skin to air dry and apply a
lubricating cream while the skin is still
moist.
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