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Vitiligo: FAQ
Is vitiligo contagious?
No. Vitiligo is not contagious. It is not something you can catch or pass on.
What is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a chronic pigmentation disorder or a skin condition of white patches resulting from abscence of pigment.
How is Vitiligo diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made by observation. Progressive, white areas on typical sites point to a diagnosis of vitiligo. If the diagnosis is not certain, the doctor will test for other conditions which can mimic vitiligo, such as chemical leukoderma, fungus infections or systemic lupus erythematosus. If the tests rule out other conditions, vitiligo is confirmed.
What causes Vitiligo?
An auto immune condition, the immune system attacking the patient's own pigment cells.
Which parts of the body are affected?
Any area may be affected but mostly areas of sun exposure, minimal friction, pressure, trauma, around eyes, nose, mouth, armpits, groins, legs, around moles. Small or large, single or multiple areas, mostly progressive.
Spontaneous improvement may occur.
Does emotional stress cause Vitiligo to appear?
Yes. Frequently an association may be noted.
Does Vitiligo affect a person's quality of life?
Social and emotional affects may occur.
Is there a cure for Vitiligo?
Usually with continuous treatment, involving 311nm uVB Narrowband, most cases improve or clear within one to two years.
The most recent effective treatment involves UVB Narrowband, Phototherapy in conjunction with topical treatment.