What is vitiligo – skin disease?
Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by patches of lighter skin. In vitiligo, parts of the skin stop producing melanin. The cause of vitiligo is not known. However, it is believed to be caused by an autoimmune disorder that destroys the melanocytes (melanin producing cells). This skin condition requires treatment by a dermatologist. Vitiligo is a common disorder of depigmentation which probably has an autoimmune aetiology. Sufferers often have relatives with other organ-specific autoimmune disorders. It presents in childhood or early adult life with well-demarcated macules of complete pigment loss. There is no history of preceding inflammation. However, repigmentation is rare if a lesion has persisted for more than 1 year or if the hair is depigmented. The psychological consequences of vitiligo can be devastating especially in Asian or black African people.
