Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a disorder in which white patches of skin appear on different parts of the body. This happens because the cells that make pigment (colour) in the skin are destroyed. These cells are called melanocytes. When you have vitiligo, the melanocytes are killed in areas by white blood cells and anti-bodies due to an auto-immune reaction.
Vitiligo can also affect the inside of your mouth, nose and the eye.
There are three different types of vitiligo
- Typical vitiligo shows areas of milky-white skin
- May be different shades of pigment in a patch
- A border of darker skin may circle an area of light skin
- Typical vitiligo shows areas of milky-white skin
- May be different shades of pigment in a patch
- A border of darker skin may circle an area of light skin
- 311 “narrowband” ultraviolet is the newest and most effective treatment and replaces PUVA treatment
- Cortisone creams and tablets only prescribed for short periods, as there are numerous side effects if used over the long term.
- Coverderm can be used as a camouflage cream.
A sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 should be used on all areas of vitiligo not covered by clothing.