A Beginner’s Guide to Vitiligo: Your Questions Answered

Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterised by the development of white patches on the skin due to a lack of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. 

While the condition is not contagious or life-threatening, it can significantly impact a person's appearance and self-esteem. Understanding Vitiligo, including its symptoms, causes, risk factors and treatment options, is essential for managing the condition effectively and improving the quality of life for those affected. 

In this guide, UK Meds aims to answer common questions about Vitiligo in a straightforward and easy-to-understand manner based on the advice provided by the NHS.

Key Takeaways:

Understanding Vitiligo:

• Definition: 

Long-term skin condition causing white patches due to lack of melanin.

• Types: 

Non-segmental (symmetrical patches) and Segmental (one area, common in children).

• Facts: 

Not contagious, not caused by infection, no cure but manageable with treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors:

• Causes: 

Autoimmune response (Non-segmental), nerve chemicals (Segmental).

• Risk Factors: 

Family history, other autoimmune conditions and specific genetic changes.

Symptoms and Treatment:

• Symptoms: 

White patches on various body parts, sometimes itchy.

• Treatment Options: 

Skin creams, phototherapy, skin grafts.

• General advice: 

Use high-SPF sunscreen, consider vitamin D supplements and seek mental health support if needed.

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a long-term condition where white patches develop on the skin due to a lack of melanin, the pigment in the skin. 

What are the different types of Vitiligo?

There are two main types:

Non-segmental Vitiligo: 

Most common, with symmetrical patches on both sides of the body.

Segmental Vitiligo: 

Affects one area of the body, more common in children.

What are the biggest misconceptions around this skin condition?

Common misconceptions include:

• Vitiligo is contagious (it is not).

• It's caused by an infection (it is not).

• There is a cure (there is no cure, but treatments can help manage it).

• Is it hereditary? Who does it affect?

• Vitiligo can be hereditary, especially if there's a family history of Vitiligo or other autoimmune conditions. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity.

What are the symptoms of Vitiligo?

Symptoms include white patches on the skin, commonly on the face, neck, hands and in skin creases. It can also affect the mouth, eyes, fingers, wrists, armpits, groin, genitals and scalp. The affected areas may occasionally be itchy.

What causes Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is caused by the lack of melanin due to a deficiency of melanocytes. Non-segmental Vitiligo is often an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks melanocytes. Segmental Vitiligo may be due to chemicals from nerve endings in the skin.

Who is more at risk of developing the condition?

Risk factors include:

• Family history of Vitiligo or other autoimmune conditions.

• Having another autoimmune condition.

• Having certain genetic changes linked to Vitiligo.

Should I see a doctor about it?

Yes, see a GP if you notice white patches on your skin. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition and address any related complications.

Can Vitiligo be treated?

While Vitiligo can't be cured, treatments can help reduce the appearance of white patches. 

Options include skin camouflage creams, steroid creams, phototherapy and in some cases, skin grafts. 

The choice of treatment depends on the severity and impact on the individual.

Video: A Doctor Explains Vitiligo Treatment Options

In the below video Dr O'Donovan (UK GMC number: 7436647) explains treatment options for the skin condition, Vitiligo:

Please be aware that the video above is only for educational purposes and is not intended for use as a substitute for seeking professional medical advice from your own doctor or trusted healthcare professional.

Other general advice

• Protect your skin from the sun using high-SPF sunscreen

• Consider taking vitamin D supplements if sun exposure is limited

• Seek psychological support if Vitiligo affects your mental health.

What are the complications of Vitiligo?

Complications include:

• Increased risk of sunburn due to lack of melanin.

• Potential eye problems, such as inflammation.

• Reduced self-esteem and confidence due to skin appearance.

Is support available?

Yes, support is available through local support groups and charities like The Vitiligo Society. A GP can refer you to support services and specialists if needed.

Sources

Vitiligo - Overview - NHS

Vitiligo - Treatment - NHS