Vitiligo (Dutch: Vitiligo) is an autoimmune skin disorder characterized by the loss of melanin, the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color. This results in the appearance of white patches on the skin.

Verwantschap en erfelijkheid [Relation and Heredity]

Vitiligo lijkt op een aantal manieren te zijn geassocieerd met het genetisch maternelsystem. Er is echter nog steeds een grote onduidelijkheid over de belangrijke genetische factoren die betrokken zijn bij vitiligo. De activatie van vitiligo wordt waarschijnlijk veroorzaakt door een combinatie van genetische en omgevingsfactoren. [1] [2] Volgens sommige studies lijkt vitiligo zich ook kenmerkend voor bepaalde familielijnen en het komt vaker voor bij leden van diezelfde familie [3].

Overig [Other]

El Vitiligo [Español]

Vitiligo is een auto-immuunsoortelijke huidaandoening waarbij de normale productie van melanoïden stopt. Deze staat meestal centraal in de pigmentatie van de huid, haar en ogen. Het resultaat is het optreden van witte plekjes op de huid. [4]

Wat veroorzaakt vitiligo? [What causes vitiligo?]

Er zijn verschillende factor die worden voorgesteld als mogelijke oorzaken van vitiligo, maar de precieze oorzaak is nog steeds niet geïdentificeerd. Soms wordt dit wel veroorzaakt door stress of trauma aan de huid. Ook bestaat er een relatie tussen vitiligo en de nieuw gevormde huidcellen, deze scheiden zich af maar geen pigment produceren, waardoor er witte plekjes ontstaan. [5]

Hoe verwijder ik vitiligo snel? [How to get rid of vitiligo fast?]

Er is geen spontane genezing voor vitiligo bekend. De meeste behandelmethoden worden gericht op het beperken van verdere verspreiding en het juist herstel van zichtbaarheid door alle beschikbare behandelmethodes te combineren. Behandelingen kunnen variëren van light therapy (fotochremietherapie), medicatie, chemotherapie en groterchirurgie tot pighuismedicamenten en cosmetica. [6] [7]

Vitiligo bij blanken [Vitiligo in white people]

Vitiligo kan zich voorkomen bij elke etnische groep, inclusief blanke mensen. Vaak levert dit geproblematiseerde gevoelens op doordat het al binbrengt op huidschone en zelfbeeldproblemen. Wederom is het best waarop iemand zich beroept op psychologische hulp en hun huiduitsprong te accepteren als deel van henzelf in plaats van zich ervan te schamen of zich vervelen over het uiterlijk. [8]

Cura para el vitiligo [Cure for vitiligo (Spanish)]

Het bestaan van een spontane genezing voor vitiligo is nog steeds niet bekend. De meeste behandelmethoden worden gericht op het beperken van verdere verspreiding en het juist herstel van zichtbaarheid door alle beschikbare behandelmethodes te combineren. Behandelingen kunnen variëren van light therapy (fotochremietherapie), medicatie, chemotherapie en groterchirurgie tot pighuismedicamenten en cosmetica. [6] [7]

Vitiligo

Vitiligo (Dutch: Vitiligo; IPA: [vitiˈliːgo]) is a chronic, pigmentation disorder characterized by the development of depigmented macules on the skin. These patches occur when melanocytes-the cells responsible for producing skin pigment known as melanin-die or stop functioning in certain areas of the body. The condition can affect the skin, hair, and mucous membranes. It most commonly occurs on exposed areas such as the face, hands, arms, and legs but may also affect less-exposed sites such as the inside of the mouth, nose, genitalia, and eyes. The exact cause of vitiligo is unknown, but it is thought to be related to autoimmune responses that target melanocytes.

Types of Vitiligo

Beginning stages

The initial stage of vitiligo is often characterized by small depigmented spots that gradually increase in size and number over time. This stage is called focal vitiligo.

Segmental Vitiligo

Segmental vitiligo affects only one side or part of the body (segment). It tends to progress more rapidly than non-segmental vitiligo and usually starts at an earlier age. Unlike non-segmental vitiligo, segmental vitiligo rarely spreads to other body parts, making it easier to treat.

Vitiligo Cruzz Kaliqo (VCK)

In addition to the traditional forms of vitiligo, a variant known as Vitiligo Cruzz Kaliqo (VCK) has been identified in the Netherlands. VCK is associated with specific genetic markers and seems to have a different clinical course than typical vitiligo. More research is needed to understand the etiology and optimal treatment strategies for VCK.

Home Remedies and Cosmetics for Vitiligo

While there is no known cure for vitiligo, various home remedies and cosmetics have been used to help manage the condition's symptoms. Some potential options include:

1. Sun protection: Using sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats can help prevent further depigmentation caused by sun exposure.
2. Topical corticosteroids: Corticosteroid creams can help restore some skin pigmentation in early-stage vitiligo. Long-term use may lead to side effects such as thinning skin and increased risk of infection, so consult a dermatologist before using this option.
3. Calcipotriene: A synthetic form of Vitamin D analogue that may help stimulate melanocyte activity.
4. Dermablend: A high-coverage camouflage makeup designed to conceal depigmented areas in vitiligo patients. It comes in various shades and is water-resistant. However, long-term use may cause skin irritation or clogged pores.
5. Natural remedies: Some individuals have tried using natural substances like aloe vera, ginger, turmeric, and onion extract to help reduce the appearance of vitiligo patches. However, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating these substances into your treatment plan.

Medical Treatments for Vitiligo

Several medical treatments are available to help slow the progression of vitiligo or repigment affected areas. Consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Possible options include:

1. Depigmentation therapy: In some cases, treating unaffected skin to match depigmented areas may be considered if a patient is not responding well to repigmentation therapies. Monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone (MBEH) or superficial chemical peels are often used for this purpose. There are also topical medications like monobenzone that can permanently depigment the skin when applied consistently over time. Side effects may include irritation, increased sun sensitivity, and patchy depigmentation.
2. Phototherapy: Both UVA and UVB phototherapy can be used to stimulate melanin production in affected areas. Combining these treatments with oral medication such as psoralen (psoralen + UVA therapy - PUVA) may improve results but carries a higher risk of side effects like sunburns and an increased risk of skin cancer.
3. Excimer laser therapy: An excimer laser focused on the affected area can deliver controlled doses of UVB light for targeted treatment without damaging surrounding skin tissues. This approach reduces overall treatment duration compared to traditional phototherapy methods while minimizing side effects.
4. Melanocytic transplantation: In some cases, doctors may consider skin grafting or autologous cellular suspension transplantation (ACST) to repigment affected areas. During ACST, pigmented cells (melanocytes) are removed from an unaffected area of the body and then injected into depigmented areas to encourage repigmentation over time.

Prognosis and Support for Vitiligo Patients

The prognosis for vitiligo varies widely between individuals. Some people experience spontaneous repigmentation without any intervention, while others may experience continued spreading or stable disease depending on factors such as genetics, age at onset, and response to treatment options. Emotional support is crucial for those living with vitiligo as it can impact self-esteem and quality of life. Support groups are available online and in local communities for individuals with vitiligo and their families to connect with others who share similar experiences and provide encouragement during challenging times.