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Vitiligo Directory
Vitiligo is a condition in which white patches develop on the skin. Vitiligo is caused by a loss of pigment in the skin, due to destruction of pigment-forming cells called melanocytes. The exact cause of the destruction of these cells is not known. One possible explanation might be that the body's immune system destroys the cells, as in other autoimmune conditions. There is no known way to prevent or cure vitiligo. However, several methods can be used to improve the appearance of skin severely affected by vitiligo. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about vitiligo, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
Hyperpigmentation, Hypopigmentation, and Your Skin
WebMD explains pigmentation - the coloring of a person's skin - and what conditions cause too much or too little.
Birthmarks and Other Skin Pigmentation Problems
WebMD explains types of birthmarks and other common skin pigmentation disorders, including symptoms and procedures to correct them.
Understanding Your Skin
WebMD explains skin and its role in protecting against injury and infection, among other things.
Resources and Support for Skin Conditions
WebMD provides a list of resources if you are looking for information on various skin conditions.
Features
Can Stress Cause Skin Problems?
Does stress cause your acne or rosacea to flare up? Or do you chew your nails to the quick? Experts say emotions can have an impact on your skin.
Premature Graying: Reasions, Options
Experts explain why some of us are destined to sport the 'distinguished' look at an early age.
Slideshows & Images
Picture of Depigmented Patch of Skin
Depigmented patch of skin on right mandible.
Picture of Vitiligo on Back
Vitiligo. These are more illustrations of fairly extensive cases of vitiligo. The condition tends to progress and may even become universal. A variety of treatment modalities are commonly employed, with varying degrees of success. The patient and family should be made aware of the sophisticated cover-up cosmetics that are now available. The use of broad-spectrum sunscreen lotions during the summer months minimizes the con- trast between normal and involved skin. For some patients, the application of topical corticosteroids alone or with brief natural sunlight exposure early in the course of the disease may induce repigmentation. Narrowband UUB is also an effective treatment. Varying combinations of topical or oral psoralens and ultraviolet A light (PUVA) are used in the treatment of vitiligo.
Picture of Vitiligo on Neck
Vitiligo. These are more illustrations of fairly extensive cases of vitiligo. The condition tends to progress and may even become universal. A variety of treatment modalities are commonly employed, with varying degrees of success. The patient and family should be made aware of the sophisticated cover-up cosmetics that are now available. The use of broad-spectrum sunscreen lotions during the summer months minimizes the con- trast between normal and involved skin. For some patients, the application of topical corticosteroids alone or with brief natural sunlight exposure early in the course of the disease may induce repigmentation. Narrowband UUB is also an effective treatment. Varying combinations of topical or oral psoralens and ultraviolet A light (PUVA) are used in the treatment of vitiligo.