vitiligo

I have vitiligo. It has steadily progressed over the span of 15 years. Do you know of a possible reason for this condition and is there any treatment to slow or stop the progress? I have learned to deal with the attention that I get but it would be nice to have some answers for myself and others when I get questioned about it.

[ApHrOdiTe21]

Vitiligo occurs when melanin — the dark pigment in the epidermis that gives your skin its normal color — is destroyed or not produced. The involved patch of skin then becomes white. Exactly why this occurs isn't known.
Doctors and scientists have theories as to what causes vitiligo. It may be due to an immune system disorder. Heredity may be a factor because there's an increased incidence of vitiligo in some families. Some people have reported a single event, such as sunburn or emotional distress, that triggered the condition. However, none of these theories has been proven as a definite cause of vitiligo.

[Teenager317]

It has been reported that Gingko medicines (usually orally-taken) act to halt the spreading of Vitiligo, however it is not recommended to use them if on anti-depresants or anticoagelants (ibuprofin and the like).

Other medicines have also been effective, such as corticosteroids, and UVA/UVB radiation treatments.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Vitiligo is a pigmentation disorder in which melanocytes (the cells that make pigment) in the skin are destroyed. Treatment options include steroids, psoralen photochemotherapy(PUVA),depigmentation and surgical therapy like skin grafting, micropigmentation or tattooing and autologous melanocyte transplants. However the choice of therapy depends on the number of white patches; their location, sizes, and how widespread they are and the option that is convenient to you. I would suggest  you to discuss these options with a dermatologist.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.