In a world that celebrates uniformity, the beauty of diversity still shines through, and one condition that exemplifies this uniqueness is vitiligo. It's a skin disorder that creates distinctive and striking patterns of depigmentation on the skin. Here, leading dermatologist Dr Viktoria Dr explains more about the condition.
Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterised by the loss of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin. This results in distinct white patches or depigmented areas that can appear anywhere on the body, varying in size and shape. These patches often create a striking contrast with the surrounding skin, making vitiligo a visually noticeable condition.
It can present in two main forms: segmental and non-segmental. Segmental vitiligo typically affects only one side of the body and is more common in children or adolescents. This form generally remains confined to one segment of the skin and does not spread further. In contrast, non-segmental vitiligo, which can appear on both sides of the body, may progress over time, leading to a more generalized distribution of white patches.
The condition does not discriminate, affecting individuals of all ethnicities and sexes. However, it often manifests before the age of 30, with about 80 percent of patients developing vitiligo by this age, and half before the age of 20. While vitiligo can be challenging, especially for those with darker skin tones due to social stigmatization, it is crucial to embrace the unique beauty it represents.
Embracing Our Unique Beauty: The exact causes of vitiligo are complex and multifaceted, involving both genetic and environmental factors. Although no single gene has been identified as the definitive cause, research suggests that up to 50 different genes may contribute to its development. Environmental triggers, particularly stress or trauma, are also significant, with many patients reporting the onset of vitiligo following a stressful event.
As an autoimmune condition, it occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys melanocytes. This predisposes individuals to a higher risk of other autoimmune disorders, such as hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. A 2020 study highlighted a 65% higher prevalence of hypothyroidism among those with vitiligo.
Managing Vitiligo: While there is currently no cure for vitiligo, several treatment options are available to help manage the condition and improve the appearance of depigmented areas. As the lead author of the British Association of Dermatologists’ 2022 guidelines on vitiligo management, I noted that topical treatments are mainly suited for those with limited disease.
For more extensive cases, phototherapy combined with oral steroids or topical creams can be beneficial, though only 30-40% of patients see improvement after months of treatment. The recent approval of Ruxolitinib in the UK and EU represents a significant advancement in treatment, but there is still a long way to go in ensuring effective and timely therapies for all affected individuals.
It is vital to remember that vitiligo is not contagious.
The beauty of diversity lies in our differences, and vitiligo is just one of the many ways people can showcase their uniqueness. As research into the causes and treatments continues, the hope for more effective therapies and, eventually, a cure remains strong. In the meantime, the most important treatment we can offer those with vitiligo is compassion and respect for the beautiful tapestry of human diversity.