Understanding vitiligo
Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system destroys melanocytes, resulting in white patches on the skin. The condition is influenced by genetics and environmental factors, and it is often associated with other autoimmune diseases.
Why it matters
Understanding the biological mechanisms of vitiligo helps patients and clinicians identify symptoms and manage associated health risks.
A chronic autoimmune skin condition in which the body’s immune system mistakes melanocytes (cells which produce melanin, giving colour to your skin, hair and eyes) as enemies and attacks them. This leads to patches of depigmentation anywhere in your body. This condition is known as vitiligo.
The main types of vitiligo are non-segmental and segmental vitiligo.
Non-segmental vitiligo is the most common form, where colour loss appears symmetrically on both sides of the body, such as both hands or both knees. Segmental vitiligo, on the other hand, often starts at a younger age and affects only one side or a single specific area of the body.
While the primary reason for vitiligo is not fully understood, it is seen to be caused by various factors, from genetics to immune dysfunction.
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