Leucoderma is another name for vitiligo. It induces immune cells to attack melanocyte cells, which are responsible for our skin's pigment. The loss of color-producing cells causes whitening in several parts of our skin.
Vitiligo is a kind of autoimmune (cause unknown) disorder. Autoimmune illnesses cause immune system cells to cause harm to certain target tissues for unknown causes
Melanocytes are the cells that give our skin its color, and vitiligo attacks them. As a result, it usually coexists with other autoimmune illnesses. In individuals with vitiligo, it is frequently recommended that they be tested for other rheumatic (autoimmune) illnesses.
Each person's white patches on the skin are unique. Based on how vitiligo spreads, it's commonly divided into two categories: segmental and non-segmental vitiligo. In certain circumstances, this classification aids in determining its location of origin and distribution, as well as its antiquity. Non-segmental vitiligo is a phrase used to indicate many white regions spread over the body. Segmental vitiligo is a term used to describe kinds of vitiligo commonly observed in children's age groups that are generally restricted to one side and one location. The extent and severity of vitiligo differ widely from one sufferer to the next. In some cases, the sickness begins and ends with a single white patch, while in others, it spreads swiftly to cover nearly the entire body. It may begin and spread over a length of time before halting and acting up from time to time. The course of this condition is frequently difficult to predict. Despite the fact that vitiligo affects 1-2 percent of the population, if the contrast between vitiligo lesions and normal skin color is minimal on persons with white skin, it might be difficult to spot from the outside. Because vitiligo sufferers cover the damaged regions of their bodies with clothing, public awareness of the illness may be limited. Females and males are equally affected by the condition.
Vitiligo is diagnosed by using wood light on patients who seek medical advice for white spots seen on their bodies under sunlight. Under wood light, vitiligo lesions distinguish themselves with a whiter (lime white) color compared to normal skin. Examination under wood light is a reliable diagnosis method, as white spots on the body can be confused with fungus disease or certain skin diseases such as pityriasis alba. Skin biopsy can be used to make sure when diagnosis is not clear. The initial objective of vitiligo therapy is to restore the original color of the skin. To do this, cortisone and tacrolimus creams are used to suppress the immune system, while excimer laser and phototherapy treatments are employed to promote melanocytes. The patient's stress level, underlying disorders, and the vitiligo's beginning age all influence the therapy procedure. Furthermore, the more recent the vitiligo lesion, the better the patient reacts to therapy. If the treatment process begins later, the patients' reaction to therapy is poorer. Antioxidants may be offered as a supplement to immune system-regulating therapy. Psychotherapy can also aid in the management of stress-related immune system damage.
Vitiligo lesions can be camouflaged using permanent concealers or tattoos. Furthermore, people with widespread vitiligo might have their normal skin patches whitened (depigmentation).
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