Dr.A.Deepak Thirunavukkarasu MBBS, DDVL, Fellow in Medical Cosmetology

Vitiligo Treatment in Chennai

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Why Choose CutiKidz Skin Clinic for Vitiligo Treatment in Chennai ?

Choose CutiKidz Skin Clinic for Vitiligo Treatment in Chennai for Expert Care Tailored to Your Child’s Needs. Our Dermatologists Specialize in Personalized Treatment Plans, Using Advanced Techniques to Restore Skin Pigmentation Safely and Effectively. With a Child-Friendly Environment and Compassionate Staff, We Ensure a Positive Treatment Experience. Book Your Appointment Today and Take the First Step Towards Restoring Your Child’s Confidence

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a skin condition where patches of skin lose their pigment, resulting in white or depigmented spots. It’s caused by the loss of melanin-producing cells and can appear anywhere on the body. While not contagious or life-threatening, vitiligo can have significant emotional impact due to its effect on appearance. Treatment options aim to restore pigment but may not be effective for everyone.

Solutions for Vitiligo

Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision can help reduce inflammation, itching, and the severity of eczema symptoms.

Medications Practice

Anti-Inflammatory cream & are applied directly to the affected skin to reduce inflammation and promote repigmentation.

Symptoms of Vitiligo

The primary symptom of vitiligo is the development of depigmented or white patches on the skin. These patches can vary in size and shape and may appear on any part of the body, including:

Skin Discoloration: The hallmark symptom of vitiligo is the loss of skin pigmentation, resulting in patches of lighter or white skin. These patches may initially be small and isolated but can enlarge and merge over time.
Symmetrical Patterns: In many cases, vitiligo patches appear symmetrically on both sides of the body. For example, if a patch develops on one elbow, a similar patch may develop on the other elbow.
Border Irregularity: The edges of vitiligo patches may be well-defined or irregular in shape. They may have a slightly darker border (known as the “borderline”), particularly in individuals with darker skin tones.
Hair Color Changes: Vitiligo can also affect the color of hair, causing premature graying or loss of pigment in the hair on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and other body hair.
Affected Mucous Membranes: In some cases, vitiligo can also affect mucous membranes, such as the lips, inside of the mouth, and genital area, leading to depigmentation in these areas.
Sensitivity to Sunlight: Depigmented skin areas are more sensitive to sunlight and may sunburn more easily than surrounding skin. Individuals with vitiligo should take precautions to protect their skin from sun exposure.
Changes in Color Vision: In rare cases, vitiligo may affect the eyes, leading to changes in color vision or the appearance of white patches on the retina (known as vitiligo-associated retinal dysfunction).

Types of Vitiligo

Vitiligo is primarily categorized into two main types based on the distribution and pattern of depigmentation:

Non-Segmental Vitiligo (NSV):

Non-segmental vitiligo, also known as generalized or bilateral vitiligo, is the most common type.
In NSV, depigmented patches typically appear symmetrically on both sides of the body, such as on the hands, arms, face, feet, and around body openings like the eyes, mouth, and genitals.
The depigmentation usually progresses slowly over time, with patches often enlarging and spreading gradually.

Segmental Vitiligo (SV):

Segmental vitiligo is less common and usually occurs at a younger age than non-segmental vitiligo.
In SV, depigmented patches develop on one side of the body and tend to be localized to a specific area or segment, such as one side of the face, trunk, or limb.
This type of vitiligo typically stabilizes after a certain period of time and may not spread further.
Segmental vitiligo may be associated with neurological conditions such as halo nevi or occur in conjunction with autoimmune diseases like thyroid disorders.

Causes of Vitiligo

The exact cause of vitiligo is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors. Here are some factors that may contribute to the development of vitiligo:

Autoimmune Factors: One leading theory suggests that vitiligo may be an autoimmune disorder, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin. This autoimmune reaction leads to the loss of pigment and the formation of depigmented patches characteristic of vitiligo.
Genetic Predisposition: There is evidence to suggest that genetics play a role in the development of vitiligo. Individuals with a family history of vitiligo or other autoimmune diseases are at higher risk of developing the condition. Certain genetic variations may predispose individuals to vitiligo by affecting immune function and melanocyte function.
Oxidative Stress: Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, may contribute to the destruction of melanocytes in vitiligo. Exposure to environmental factors such as UV radiation, chemicals, and pollutants can increase oxidative stress and trigger or exacerbate vitiligo.
Neurological Factors: Some cases of segmental vitiligo, which affects one side of the body, may be associated with neurological conditions such as nerve damage or dysfunction. It is believed that abnormalities in the nervous system may disrupt melanocyte function and contribute to the development of segmental vitiligo.
Triggering Events: Certain factors or events may trigger the onset or exacerbation of vitiligo in susceptible individuals. These triggers may include physical trauma to the skin (such as cuts, burns, or sunburns), emotional stress, hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or thyroid disorders), infections, and exposure to certain chemicals or medications.
Autoimmune Diseases: Vitiligo is often associated with other autoimmune diseases such as autoimmune thyroid disorders (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease), autoimmune adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), type 1 diabetes, and pernicious anemia. The co-occurrence of these conditions suggests a common underlying immune dysfunction.

It’s important to note that while these factors may contribute to the development of vitiligo, the exact cause can vary among individuals, and not all people with vitiligo will have the same triggers or risk factors. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex mechanisms underlying vitiligo and to develop more effective treatments.