What is Vitiligo Disease?

Vitiligo: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment Options

People who encounter vitiligo lose skin coloration or pigmentation in several areas of the body, where lighter patches appear in the skin. This loss of color happens when melanocytes are attacked by one’s own immune system, and as a result, these cells are destroyed.

Though vitiligo is mainly seen on the skin, it can also affect hair, the inner ear, the eyes, and the inside of the nose and mouth. Moreover, individuals of any age, sex or social background can develop this skin condition.

As per studies, incidences of vitiligo in India range from approximately 3% to 4% and up to 8.8% of the population. Thus, if you or your loved ones have vitiligo, it's crucial to know the causes of this disease, the suggested treatment methods and other essential aspects.   

Keep reading!

What Causes Vitiligo?

Skin conditions such as vitiligo are likely to occur when there is a lack of melanin. However, why this condition appears in the first place is yet to be discovered.

Theories have shown that vitiligo can result from:

1. An Autoimmune Condition : In some individuals, the immune system may interpret certain healthy cells as foreign substances like bacteria, thereby inflicting harm on the body. This triggers the immune response to overreact and form antibodies that destroy melanocytes.
2. Stress : The volume of pigment produced by a person’s melanocyte cells may be hampered if they go through frequent emotional stress. In addition, physical stress on someone’s body, particularly after an injury, may also trigger the risk factors for vitiligo.
3. Genetic Modifications : A mutation or change in the body DNA has the potential to influence how an individual’s melanocytes function. Likewise, there are about 30 genes which can enhance your chances of developing vitiligo disease.
4. Environment Triggers : Combined with the factors mentioned above, several other elements like UV radiation and harmful chemical exposure can also impact how a person’s melanocyte cells work.

Is Vitiligo Genetic?

Researchers continue to try to determine the causes of vitiligo. However, it is worth mentioning that genetic factors play a vital role in around 30% of the cases. It suggests that the condition has a notable hereditary link and thus you can obtain vitiligo from any of your biological family members.

How is Vitiligo Diagnosed and Treated?

The affected people generally receive a vitiligo diagnosis through a physical examination. During this, the doctor asks specific questions about the individual’s family history and personal medical records. Medical experts may also suggest performing a blood test to determine thyroid levels.

Treatment is not strictly necessary as it does not harm the body. However, if the physical symptoms start affecting your emotional well-being, you can consult a dermatologist for viable treatment options.

Common medical treatments for vitiligo are as follows:

• Light therapy
• Depigmentation therapy
• Medications
• Surgery
• Counseling

Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for vitiligo. Your chosen healthcare specialist can only help you select an appropriate treatment plan that suits your skin.

Note:  To minimize the out-of-pocket expenses for vitiligo treatment, one can avail health insurance from Star Health which covers all types of dermatology treatment. However, do check the policy terms and conditions to know the exact scope of coverage before purchasing a plan.

What to Do If You Have Vitiligo?

Many vitiligo-affected people feel underconfident in social situations, and some seek professional help to slowly regain their self-esteem. Consequently, a person can use make-up to cover depigmented areas if they feel uncomfortable.

In addition, you may consider getting a tattoo on the affected spots. Also, if vitiligo has affected your hair, you may dye it to blend with the rest of the unaffected hair on your head.