Vitiligo Symptoms and Signs

Type:Uv phototherapy Time:2017-01-19 15:41:16

Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by white patches . These skin patches are missing the skin pigment melanin; in most cases, the condition is triggered by sunburn. Normally, excessive sun exposure first causes skin reddening, followed by peeling of the outer skin layers, and formation of darker skin in the exposed area.However, in some cases, a reaction occurs in which the melanin production is blocked and the skin loses its color. The patches of white are usually at the site of the burn, but it is also possible for additional patches to begin appearing elsewhere. Genetic factors are believed to contribute to susceptibility to experiencing vitiligo, and the condition might be triggered by conditions other than sunburn, such as viral infections and physical trauma to the skin. The disorder appears to have an autoimmune characteristic, in which melanocytes (melanin producing cells) are attacked and destroyed. Vitiligo first appears by age 20, though it can begin later.

Symptoms of vitiligo include the appearance of irregular white patches, or various degrees of depigmentation on the body. People often notice the loss of pigment on the following areas first:

�� face

�� lips

�� hands

�� arms

�� feet

The other areas where white patches due to vitiligo may occur are:

�� armpits

�� eyes

�� genitals

�� groin

�� avel

�� nostrils

In addition to giving skin its colour, melanin also protects the skin from the sun. Lack of pigmentation in the skin leads to a greater risk of sun sensitivity in affected areas. Vitiligo increases the chance of sunburn and the development of skin cancer in people with the condition.

Vitiligo is not a contagious condition.