Information on Vitiligo Skin Disorder

Vitiligo commonly known as leucoderma is a skin pigmentation disorder that is characterized by discolored patches on the skin.  This condition is formed when the skins cells responsible for the production of pigments, melanocytes, are destroyed. Thus, this gives rise to the appearance of white patches on the skin, on various parts of the body. These discolored patches may at times also surface of the retina and both of the mucous membranes: the tissues which line the insides of both, the nose and mouth.  In fact, the hair which grows on the affected area may also turn white. The causes of this condition have not been precisely established; however, several theories have been raised. One of the theories is that, this is an inherited condition and has to do with genetics. There is considerably strong evidence which suggests that individuals with this condition have inherited a group of 3 genes, which is what makes them vulnerable to depigmentation.

Another very widely accepted theory is that, depigmentation takes place on account of vitiligo being an auto immune disease. An auto-immune disease is basically a disease that is caused when an individual’s immune system begins reacting against the body’s tissues and organs. As per this theory, when a person suffers from vitiligo, the body produces proteins known as cytokines. These cytokines bring about a change in the cells that produce pigments causing them to die. About 1-2 million people suffer from this condition in the United States, and about 65 million people in the entire world. People that develop vitiligo generally first notice small white patches (caused by depigmentation) on various parts of the body.

These white patches of skin are common in areas of the body that are exposed to the sun such as the lips, face, neck and arms. Some of the other areas that these white patches may surface are; the groin, armpits, rectal areas, genitals, navel, nostrils, eyes and around the mouth. Furthermore, in addition to the formation of white patches, a person with vitiligo could also witness the premature graying of their scalp hair, beard, eyebrows and eyelashes. People that have a darker skin tone may experience white patches on the inside of their mouths as well. Finally, to answer your question, no, this is not a contagious disease. One cannot contract vitiligo simply by being around or touching a person who suffers from it. If it were, then half the worlds’ population, if not more, would be suffering from it.