Vitiligo is an acquired, idiopathic, progressive whitening of the skin and hair characterized by destruction of pigment producing cells in the skin called melanocytes.

Vitiligo appears to affect at least 1% to 2% of the population, irrespective of sex, race, or age and 50% begin before age 20. The more dark skinned a person is, the more their vitiligo stands out, because of the contrast between affected and unaffected areas of skin.

People from families with an increased prevalence of thyroid disease, diabetes mellitus, and vitiligo appear to be at increased risk for development of vitiligo. The two predisposing (genetic) and precipitating (environmental) factors contribute to vitiligo.

Many patients attribute the onset of their vitiligo to physical trauma, sun burn, illness, or emotional stress. The typical vitiligo macule is chalk white in color, has convex margins usually present on the extensor surfaces and in priorificial orifices which are typically symmetrical.

The disease progresses by gradual enlargement of individual macules and the development of new white spots on various parts of the body.

Vitiligo can be categorized as one of three types, based on the pattern of depigmentation. The most common type is generalized vitiligo, in which there is widespread distribution of white macules, often in a remarkably symmetrical array.

The focal type is characterized by one or more macules on a single site; in some cases, this may be an early evolutionary stage of one of the other forms of the disease. The segmental type, which is uncommon, is characterized by one of several macules on one hand or one side of the body.

This type is not usually associated with vitiligo macules in other parts of the body, and new vitiligo spots do not appear.

The change in appearance caused by vitiligo can affect your emotional and psychological well-being. You may experience emotional stress, particularly if vitiligo develops on visible areas of you body, such as your face, hands, arms or feet.

You may feel embarrassed, ashamed, depressed or worried about how others will react. Young people, who are often particularly concerned about their appearance, can be devastated by widespread vitiligo.

Find a dermatologist who's knowledgeable about vitiligo. Find out as much as you can about vitiligo and its treatment options so you can participate in making important decisions about your health care.

Vitiligo Surgery

punch grafting

blister grafting

melanocyte culture