$Unique_ID{BRK00228}
$Pretitle{
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
Infections or Parasites}
$Title{What is Vitiligo?}
$Subject{vitiligo pigmentation causes}
$Volume{L-20, A-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is Vitiligo?


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QUESTION:  I know my condition is called vitiligo, but I know little else
about it.  I am under treatment that is long, but I can't see any results yet.
Can you offer me some explanations and information?

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ANSWER:  Your disease is not all that rare as it affects about 1% of the
population, touching patients of all sexes, ages and background.  At least
half the patients report a family history of vitligo or other problems with
skin pigmentation.  Vitiligo is a disorder of the coloring or pigmentation of
skin where the cells which produce color (they are called melanocytes) are
destroyed for reasons which remain unknown.  This results in patches of skin
which are lighter than the surrounding areas, and which can occur anywhere on
the body, predominantly on the backs of hands and wrists, face and neck, and
around body openings.  Repigmentation may occur without treatment, but when it
doesn't, treatment is directed at stimulating the the production of cells
that produce the color.  A medication called psoralen is used in conjunction
with ultraviolet light.  It's a long process as you have discovered, and can
require more than 100 treatments in some cases.  About 75% of treated
patients will have a satisfactory result although total recoloring is never
achieved.  Cosmetics may help cover the remaining areas or newly developed
tanning solutions that do not wipe of on clothing may be used.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
