Diseases
vitiligo
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Vitiligo (vit-ih-LIE-go) is a disease that causes loss of skin color in patches. The discolored areas usually get bigger with time. The condition can affect the skin on any part of the body. It can also affect hair and the inside of the mouth.
Symptoms
- Patchy loss of skin color, which usually first appears on the hands, face, and areas around body openings and the genitals
- Premature whitening or graying of the hair on your scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows or beard
- Loss of color in the tissues that line the inside of the mouth and nose (mucous membranes)
- Vitiligo can start at any age, but usually appears before age 30.
Causes
- A disorder of the immune system (autoimmune condition)
- Family history (heredity)
- A trigger event, such as stress, severe sunburn or skin trauma, such as contact with a chemical
Risk factors
- Genetics (Family history)
- Environmental (severe sunburn or skin trauma, such as contact with a chemical)
Diagnosis
- Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Skin biopsy
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is vitiligo?
Vitiligo (vit-ih-LIE-go) is a disease that causes loss of skin color in patches. The discolored areas usually get bigger with time. The condition can affect the skin on any part of the body. It can also affect hair and the inside of the mouth.
What are the symptoms of vitiligo?
Patchy loss of skin color, which usually first appears on the hands, face, and areas around body openings and the genitals, Premature whitening or graying of the hair on your scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows or beard, Loss of color in the tissues that line the inside of the mouth and nose (mucous membranes), Vitiligo can start at any age, but usually appears before age 30.
What causes vitiligo?
A disorder of the immune system (autoimmune condition); Family history (heredity); A trigger event, such as stress, severe sunburn or skin trauma, such as contact with a chemical
Which medicines are used for vitiligo?
methoxsalen, tacrolimus
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