Vitiligo, a common skin condition characterized by white patches or macules, affects around 1%-2% of the population regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. Although it poses less systemic health risks, its cosmetic impact can be devastating.
Causes: Idiopathic
Vitiligo stems from autoimmune dysfunction, where an overactive immune system attacks melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin. Approximately 20% of cases may have a positive family component. Certain triggers like sunlight exposure, stress, or physical trauma can exacerbate the condition.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing vitiligo typically involves a thorough history & clinical examination and a wood's lamp & dermoscopy test for confirmation. Additional tests; such as blood tests and skin biopsy may be necessary to rule out other conditions.
Treatment:
Various treatment modalities are available, with re-pigmentation therapies showing better efficacy on the face and trunk compared to hands and feet or areas with white hair. Treatment options include medical interventions like topical creams, oral medications, and phototherapy (NB-UVB, Excimer, PUVA), as well as surgical procedures.
In recent years, surgical approaches for vitiligo have evolved significantly. Procedures such as Non-Cultured Melanocyte Transfer (NCMT), Follicular Grafting, Micro Punch Grafting, Mini Punch Grafting, Suction Blister Epidermal Grafting, and Split-Thickness Skin Grafting (STSG) are employed based on the type, extent, and location of the lesions.
At Aurora Skin and Aesthetics, we specialize in these advanced treatment modalities to effectively address vitiligo and help restore pigmentation for our patients.
