World vitiligo day – 25^th June

Vitiligo is a disease of skin in which areas of skin lose its natural color. This disease is considered as a type of autoimmune disease in which for unknow reason the immunity cells in the body attacks the cell that form melanin which is responsible for skin color. Vitiligo can a ect any skin type and all ages, but it usually occurs before age 30.

The white patches might not be developing on skin, but it might also a ect hair or even the inner part of the mouth. This condition is neither life threatening nor contagious, but it could be stressful to the patient as it a ects his/her confidence and self-acceptance.

There are multiple types of treatment for vitiligo and the aim of treatment is to regain the color of skin. Treatment includes topicals that reduce the inflammation of the a ected skin such as steroids or immunomodulators. Also, light therapy to encourage skin of forming new color in the a ected areas. There is many research that is being done currently to discover new treatment for vitiligo these includes agents that can control or activate melanocyte the cells responsible for producing melanin.

It is important to understand that skin a ected with vitiligo is more prone to sun damage and to develop skin cancer, so it is highly important for patients with vitiligo to practice regular e cient sun protection measures.

Finally understanding the psychological impact of this disease is very important , many covering make up options are available and should be shared with patients since diagnosis.