Vitiligo meaning

Vitiligo is a skin disorder in which there is reduced pigmentation (hypopigmentation) of the skin pigment cells (the melanocytes). They do not produce melanin pigment which is responsible for the color of the skin, hair and eyes. The melanocytes are either absent, less or dysfunctional.

This hypopigmentation affects people of all races/ ethnicities, age groups, genders, skin colours worldwide. It is more commonly seen among dark-complexioned people.

Vitiligo Symptoms

White patches appear on skin parts like the hands, face or anywhere on the body. There are patches of chalk- or milk-white in color, surrounded by a normal or a hyperpigmented border. The white patches are of various sizes and configurations. The involvement is symmetrical. Eyebrow and eyelid hair turn white prematurely. The areas exposed to the sun are prone to develop patches.

This is a psychologically devastating disorder, creates emotional stress/ anxiety, and reduces confidence levels of the person facing it.

Vitiligo Causes

The causes can be complex and varied. The exact cause is unknown. This is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease. This has a genetic as well as non-genetic component since it responds to environmental triggers. Many people reported that the first vitiligo symptoms appeared after facing a stressful situation. It could be an accident, loss of a loved one (death), job loss, severe sunburn, or a serious illness. Consciously adopt stress management tips to control stress and anxiety.

Stress and Vitiligo

There may be a relationship between stress and the development of this skin ailment. Scientific researches done by Al-Abadei et al. indicated that psychological stress increases levels of neuroendocrine hormones, affects the immune system and alters the level of neuropeptides, which may be the initial steps in the pathogenesis of vitiligo.

Vitiligo and Psoriasis

These skin conditions are closely related. Both of these are major skin diseases with genetic and immunological factors involved. They share a common genetic locus and provide a basis for understanding the molecular mechanism of skin disorders. Th1 cytokines play a role in the cause and subsequent development of both diseases

Psoriasis is a condition in which there are lesions with the possibility of itching and possible skin peeling sharply demarcated in vitiliginous skin. A person with vitiligo has a high chance of developing psoriasis; healing of psoriatic lesions often leaves hypopigmentation that could simulate vitiligo and leaves no hyperpigmentation. A person with psoriasis may not necessarily develop vitiligo.

June 25 is celebrated as World Vitiligo Day. It aims to create awareness about this skin condition, its symptoms, causes, treatment and foods beneficial. Stress reduction tips help to stay calmer and healthier.

About Author

Pallavi Pinge is a Clinical Nutritionist and Dietitian | Content Director & Editor for health websites | has a passion for digital health and enjoys promoting health and wellness. She’s the founder and director of Ambrosia Wellness, where she provides personalized nutrition counseling, education, and coaching to individuals with various health conditions.  You can follow her on her social media channels below to stay tuned in with the latest in health and wellness | Health Blog | Contact her for appointments |