Vitiligo affects the skin by causing white patches of pigment loss, which can appear on any part of the body and can affect the hair, eyes or even the immune system, without causing severe physical symptoms.
What is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterized by the loss of pigment in certain areas of the body, leading to the appearance of white patches. This condition occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair and eyes), are destroyed or stop working. Although it is not a medically dangerous disease, vitiligo can have a significant impact on the quality of life and self-esteem of affected people.
Vitiligo can occur at any age, but most often begins before the age of 30. The condition is not contagious and can affect people of any ethnic or racial origin.
How does vitiligo affect the skin and the body?
Vitiligo is a chronic condition characterized by the loss of skin pigment, with autoimmune, genetic or environmental causes.
What are the differences between vitiligo and other skin diseases?
Vitiligo and psoriasis are both autoimmune skin diseases, but they differ in their causes, appearance and symptoms. Vitiligo occurs due to the destruction of melanocytes, which leads to the loss of pigment and the appearance of smooth white patches, without inflammation or other symptoms. In contrast, psoriasis is caused by an accelerated regeneration of skin cells, causing red, inflamed lesions covered with silvery scales, often accompanied by itching or pain. Vitiligo only affects the appearance of the skin, while psoriasis can also have systemic implications, such as psoriatic arthritis. Treatments are also different, aiming either to repigment the skin (in vitiligo causes) or to reduce inflammation and excessive regeneration (in the case of psoriasis).
Read more about Psoriasis, another autoimmune disease of the dermis - CLICK HERE
Types of vitiligo
Vitiligo is classified into several types, depending on how the white spots are distributed on the body and the extent of the disease. Here are the main types:
Focal vitiligo
Focal vitiligo is characterized by the appearance of white spots in a small, well-defined area of the body. This type is less common and does not progress to other areas of the skin.
Segmental vitiligo
Segmental vitiligo affects only one part of the body or a specific area (such as half of the face, arm or leg) and has an asymmetrical pattern. It occurs frequently in children or young people and progresses at a faster rate than other types, but usually stabilizes after a period of time.
Generalized Vitiligo
Generalized vitiligo is the most common type and involves the appearance of white patches on multiple areas of the body, often in a symmetrical pattern. The patches can affect both sides of the body equally, such as the hands, knees, or face.
Acrofacial vitiligo
Acrofacial vitiligo is manifested by skin discoloration, especially on the extremities (fingers, hands, feet) and on the face, around the mouth, eyes, or nose. It is a more localized form, but can progress to other areas.
Universal vitiligo
Universal vitiligo is the most severe and rare form, characterized by almost complete loss of pigment over the entire body. This form can lead to generalized skin discoloration.
What are the causes of vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a complex condition, and the exact causes are not fully understood. However, several risk factors and mechanisms may contribute to its development:
Genetic factors
Heredity plays an important role in the occurrence of vitiligo. People who have close relatives affected by this condition are at a higher risk of developing vitiligo. Vitiligo in children can cause white patches on the skin, but it is not a contagious condition.
Immune system disorders
Vitiligo is classified as an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system attacks the body's own cells. In this case, melanocytes (responsible for skin pigmentation) are destroyed, leading to the loss of pigment in certain areas. This autoimmune reaction is a common mechanism in many cases of vitiligo.
Exposure to chemicals
Contact with toxic or irritating chemicals can trigger vitiligo in some cases, especially if they are accompanied by other genetic or autoimmune predispositions. For example, exposure to phenols or other industrial substances can affect the normal functioning of melanocytes.
Stress and emotional trauma
Severe stress or emotional trauma can trigger or worsen vitiligo. Although they are not a direct cause, such factors can influence the activity of the immune system or cause an inflammatory response that affects melanocytes.
Risk factors for vitiligo
Vitiligo is a complex condition, and certain conditions or factors can increase the risk of developing this disease.
Family history
An important factor in the development of vitiligo is family history. People who have close relatives (especially parents or siblings) who suffer from vitiligo have a higher risk of developing this condition.
Exposure to certain external factors
Certain external factors can trigger or worsen vitiligo in genetically predisposed individuals. These include exposure to chemicals, such as industrial products or cleaning agents, which can irritate the skin and cause an autoimmune reaction. Physical or emotional trauma, such as severe sunburn or intense stress, can also activate the disease in those predisposed.
Associations with other autoimmune diseases
Vitiligo is frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases, in which the immune system attacks the body's own cells. These diseases include autoimmune thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes, pernicious anemia, and systemic lupus erythematosus. The presence of these diseases can increase the risk of developing vitiligo and can influence the course of the disease.
Vitiligo Symptoms
Vitiligo manifests itself through a series of visible symptoms, which can vary in severity and location depending on the type and progression of the condition. Here are the main signs of the disease:
Skin depigmentation
The main symptom of vitiligo is the appearance of white patches on the skin, caused by the loss of melanin. These patches can appear anywhere on the body, being frequently found on the hands, face, legs, knees and other areas exposed to the sun or subjected to friction. The patches are usually well-defined, smooth and painless.
Hair color changes
The hair that grows in areas affected by vitiligo can lose its pigment, becoming white or gray. This can affect the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes or even the beard, usually in association with the patches on the skin.
Sun sensitivity
The lack of melanin in depigmented areas increases the skin's sensitivity to UV rays, making the affected skin more prone to sunburn. People with vitiligo should use adequate sunscreen to avoid complications.
How is vitiligo diagnosed?
The diagnosis of vitiligo is based on a clinical examination of the skin, but sometimes additional tests are needed to confirm the condition and rule out other causes.
Laboratory tests and skin biopsy
The diagnosis of vitiligo may involve general tests to confirm the loss of melanocytes and rule out other skin conditions. The dermatologist examines the skin, highlighting the depigmented patches more clearly. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed, which consists of taking a small sample of skin to study cellular changes.
Blood tests to detect autoimmune comorbidities
Since vitiligo is often associated with other autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes, or pernicious anemia, your doctor may recommend blood tests. These may include tests for thyroid function, blood glucose levels, or antibodies specific to autoimmune diseases.
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Vitiligo treatment
The treatment of skin depigmentation in vitiligo is based on a personalized approach, which may include traditional methods, such as topical therapies and phototherapy, but also periodic intramuscular administration of vitamin D3. Innovative therapies, adapted to the needs of each patient, can also be integrated. Vitamin D3, administered intramuscularly or intravenously in severe cases, has significant benefits in the treatment of vitiligo through its role as an immunomodulator, stimulation of melanogenesis, anti-inflammatory effects and support of skin health, thus contributing to the reduction of the autoimmune response and repigmentation.
Topical treatments and phototherapy therapies
Treatment for vitiligo - include the use of creams and ointments containing corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation and stimulate skin repigmentation. In addition, phototherapy is an effective treatment method that helps stimulate melanocytes to produce pigment in the affected areas.
Systemic therapy with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants
In more severe cases or when local treatments do not work, systemic corticosteroids or immunosuppressant drugs can be used to control inflammation and modulate the autoimmune response. These drugs can be administered orally or as injections and help prevent the progression of vitiligo.
Integrative therapies and personalized protocols
An innovative approach to the treatment of vitiligo is HHO® Therapy, a form of medical therapy that is based on three distinct stages, aiming to support the health and recovery of patients. These stages are:
Hemoperfusion: In this phase, the patient’s blood is passed through a special filter, which cleans and detoxifies it, eliminating harmful substances and enriching the blood with oxygen. This process improves the quality of the blood and contributes to a healthier immune system.
Hyperthermia: In the second stage, the patient’s body temperature is raised in a controlled manner, stimulating the immune system and promoting cellular healing and regeneration processes. This is a method known as therapeutic fever, which helps activate the body’s self-healing mechanisms.
Oxygenation: The final stage involves providing increased levels of oxygen to the cleansed blood, which improves cellular function and supports the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues.
HHO® therapy is used for various medical conditions, including the depigmentation skin disease vitiligo, with potential benefits such as effective detoxification, stimulating blood circulation, supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation. These integrative therapies offer a holistic approach, complementary to traditional treatments.
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Lifestyle recommendations for people with vitiligo
For people with vitiligo repigmentation, it is essential to apply a high-protection sunscreen (minimum SPF 30) daily to exposed areas, as depigmented skin is much more vulnerable to sunburn. Also, regularly moisturizing the skin with emollient creams or oils can prevent its drying, which is common in affected areas. It is recommended to avoid irritating products, such as those containing alcohol or perfumes, and to use delicate and hypoallergenic products. A balanced diet, rich in antioxidants, vitamins (such as vitamin C and E) and minerals (such as zinc), can support the immune system and skin health, thus contributing to the management of the condition.
In addition to these measures, stress management plays an important role, as emotional stress can worsen vitiligo symptoms. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can help maintain emotional balance. In addition, regular consultations with a dermatologist are crucial to monitor the evolution of the condition and adjust treatments according to its stage, to ensure effective control of symptoms and progression of vitiligo.
Conclusion
Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition that can have a significant impact on the aesthetics and emotional state of affected individuals. Although there is no universal treatment that completely cures the depigmentation skin disease vitiligo, there are multiple therapeutic options that can help control and reduce symptoms. Treatments range from topical methods and phototherapy, to innovative therapies such as HHO® Therapy, which offers an integrative approach.
A healthy lifestyle, which includes sun protection, proper skin hydration, and stress management, can help minimize the impact of vitiligo and improve quality of life.
Bibliographical sources
Bergqvist, C., & Ezzedine, K. (2020). Vitiligo: a review. Dermatology, 236(6), 571-592.
DJ Gawkrodger, A.D. Ormerod, L. Shaw, I. Mauri‐Sole, M.E. Whitton, M.J. Watts, A.V. Anstey, J. Ingham, K. Young, Guideline for the diagnosis and management of vitiligo, British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 159, Issue 5, 1 November 2008, Pages 1051–1076, https://doi.org/10.1111/j .1365-2133.2008.08881.x
Articles Online
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vitiligo/symptoms-causes/syc-20355912 - - Accessed on 03.12.2024
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitiligo/ - - Accessed on 03.12.2024
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12419-vitiligo - - Accessed on 05.12.2024
