Vitiligo
Autoimmune disease that causes white spots on the skin due to loss of melanocytes. It benefits from early assessment by a dermatologist and appropriate treatment plan.
What is vitiligo
Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease in which melanocytes — skin cells producing pigment — are destroyed. As a consequence, well-defined white spots appear on the skin, which can grow, unite or appear in new zones over time.
It affects about 0.5-2% of the world's population and can arise at any age — about half of the cases start before the age of 20. It's not contagious and it's not painful, but it can have a significant psychological impact. There are effective treatments that can stabilize and recover pigmentation.
Signs and symptoms
- White (milk) stains, well delimited, with a defined edge.
- Typical locations — face (around the eyes, mouth), hands, elbows, knees, back, feet, genital region.
- The spots can be symmetrical or asymmetric depending on the type.
- Early white hair in affected areas (in fur areas).
- Usually painless and without itching.
- The stains are particularly sensitive to sunburn — they have no protective pigment.
Types of vitiligo
- Vitiligo non-segmentary (more common) — spots in multiple locations, typically symmetrical; evolution by outbreaks.
- Vitiligo segmentar — more common in young people, single - side spots, following the path of nerves; usually progresses in a shorter period and then stabilizes.
- Focal Vitiligo — isolated spots, no pattern defined.
- Universal Vitiligo — very extensive, rare involvement.
Causes
- Autoimmune disease — the immune system attacks melanocytes.
- Genetic predisposition — common in families with other autoimmune diseases.
- Stunning factors — intense stress, sunburn, skin trauma.
- Common association with other autoimmune diseases — thyroid, type 1 diabetes, alopecia areata.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is clinical, by evaluating the spots and their distribution. In an online consultation, the dermatologist evaluates photographs in good lighting (in spots and adjacent areas) and a questionnaire on evolution, personal and family history.
Whenever possible, Wood’s light examination — performed in person — helps to confirm the diagnosis and assess the total extent. Blood tests to exclude other associated autoimmune diseases may be recommended.
Talk to a dermatologist about your vitiligo
No months-long wait for an in-person appointment. Each case reaches the dermatologist already prepared with photographs, history and questionnaire answers. Choose a report in under 24h or a booked video consultation.
Start consultationOptions for treatment
The treatment has two main objectives: to stabilize the disease (prevent new spots) and to recover pigment in existing spots. It requires persistence — the results are gradual over months.
Topical application
Formulations applied to the spots, indicated by the dermatologist according to location and extension. Treatment basis in most cases.
Actinotherapy
Therapeutic use of ultraviolet radiation in a medical environment. Indicated in extensive or topic resistant frames. It requires face-to-face evaluation and execution.
Procedures and surgery
In cases stabilised for several months, there are individual repigmentation procedures. These are in-person and complementary options.
Psychological and cosmetic support camouflage
The emotional impact can be significant. Psychological support, patient associations and specific camouflage cosmetics are part of a complete plan.
Frequently asked questions
The Vitiligo is not contagious.
Nope. Vitiligo is not transmitted from person to person by any means. It's an autoimmune disease, not an infection.
Is there a cure?
There is no definite cure known, but it is possible to stabilize and recover pigmentation. Many patients have a significant response to appropriate treatment, with marked aesthetic improvement.
Will it continue to spread?
It's unpredictable. Some cases are stable for years; others progress in outbreaks. Early treatment helps to stabilize. Monitoring and monitoring with dermatologists are important.
Is online consultation for vitiligo?
Yes, for evaluation, planning and monitoring. Complementary examinations (Wood light, repigmentation procedures) require face - to - face — the dermatologist indicates when necessary.
Start monitoring your vitiligo
Send photographs in good lighting and the questionnaire. A dermatologist evaluates, proposes plan and follows evolution.
- From 60€
- Report on average within 24 working hours
- Ongoing follow-up