Vitiligo, a skin disease that shows its symptoms with white patches on the skin, mostly occurs due to genetic factors. However, tension can also occur with factors such as injuries and febrile illnesses. We have researched all you wonder about vitiligo disease for you. Here are the causes and treatment of vitiligo!
What causes vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a skin disease that occurs as a result of damage to the melanocyte cells, which are necessary for the production of pigments that give the skin its color, and failure to perform its functions. White spots that appear in areas where pigment cannot be produced properly can occur in various sizes and shapes. Depending on the loss of pigment, the color and intensity of the spots may vary.
The factor that causes tension disease after genetic factors
Genetic factors are accepted as the primary factor in the emergence of vitiligo. However, as a result of tension, injuries, febrile diseases and significant sunburns, the tissues that support the formation of pigment may be damaged and vitiligo may occur. Conditions such as anemia, type-1 diabetes, Hashimoto’s thyroid, and psoriasis, which are diseases related to the autoimmune system, can also trigger vitiligo.
There are two types of vitiligo, segmental and non-segmental
Vitiligo is seen in two different forms as segmental vitiligo and non-segmental vitiligo. Segmental vitiligo usually occurs in childhood and causes spots on the skin that appear suddenly in a certain area. The risk of spreading to the body is less, but the treatment of the area where the spots are seen is relatively more difficult, so it should be diagnosed as early as possible. Non-segmental vitiligo is a type of vitiligo that occurs in various parts of the body.
Diagnosis of vitiligo
A dermatologist is required for the diagnosis of vitiligo disease. The white spots seen in the examination are re-examined with a special device called wood light and the pigment densities in the skin are analyzed. Generally, wood examination method is sufficient for the diagnosis of vitiligo disease, but in some special cases, skin biopsy may be required. In order to understand whether the disease is associated with other autoimmune disorders, blood analyzes may also be requested during the diagnosis process.
Vitiligo treatment
After vitiligo is diagnosed, a personalized treatment program is planned. The main aim in the treatment of vitiligo is to make the skin its own color by compensating the pigments that cannot be produced properly. Phototherapy (light therapy) or excimer laser can be applied to support the production of melanocyte cells that give the skin its color. If vitiligo has arisen due to issues related to the immune system, antioxidant support may also be recommended to support immunity. Vitiligo cream can be used to prevent pigment loss, or symptoms can be reduced with a special tattoo formula applied to the stained areas of the skin. In any case, a dermatologist should determine the individual treatment program after detailed analysis.
