Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by loss of pigment (melanin), resulting in white spots on the skin. It occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin. Treatment may include local medications, phototherapy, and cosmetic camouflage. The assessment of the Polygenic Risk Score for vitiligo is based on the examination of 43 gene polymorphisms.
Genetic testing for vitiligo is included along with 12 other diseases in the Genetic Screening for Immune Diseases, Polygenic Risk Score, as well as in the Genetic Screening for Sensory Organs and Skin Diseases, Polygenic Risk Score, along with 12 other diseases.
Causes and non-genetic risk factors
Vitiligo occurs when melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) die or stop melanin production. The origin is not clear, but could be related to:
- Autoimmune disorder
- Family history
- Triggering events such as stress, sunburn, or trauma to the skin
Symptoms
Vitiligo is a benign disease with no significant health consequences. It can begin at any age, but its onset is most common before age 30. The most common signs of vitiligo include:
- Patchy loss of skin color usually appears first on the hands, face, and areas around body openings
- Premature discoloration of the hair, eyelashes, or eyebrows
- Loss of color of the mucous membranes
There is no cure for vitiligo, but there are treatments that can help stop or slow the color-fading process.
Prevention
There is no specific prevention against the onset of vitiligo. Once diagnosed, some actions can be taken to slow down its progression, such as:
- Protecting the skin from sun exposure with high protection factor creams.
- Avoid exposure to artificial sources of UV rays, such as self-tanning beds.
- Avoid situations that can trigger stress or trauma to the skin.
