Vitiligo (also called leukoderma) affects approximately one in every 200 people and is characterized by the appearance of the skin of white patches or very pale pink surrounded by dark borders. This usually appear more frequently in the area of the face (especially around the eyes and mouth), chest (especially in the armpits and English) and on the hands. No injuries or causes itching and can affect both children and adults without regard to sex, race or ethnic group. Vitiligo occurs when cells (called melanocytes) that produce the pigment does not produce more or the cells are destroyed. It is unknown the exact cause of vitiligo.

However, it could be due to: Hereditary Factor Malfunction of the thyroid gland disorder Stress Injury Hormonal changes underlying diseases such as pernicious anemia, Addison’s disease or diabetes mellitus. However, the most accepted theory is that vitiligo is caused by autoimmune system problems when the body reacts as if melanocytes were harmful foreign agent and destroy them. It is important that the person suffering from vitiligo to understand this disease to have a realistic expectation of it. Although not a deadly disease is annoying and unpredictable. In some cases (20%) repigmentation occurs spontaneously and other remains static or is spread throughout the body, factors that give a good prognosis for repigmentation are the recent onset (less than 6 months), the affected is a young guy and that the spots are located in the facial area. As for the unfavorable factors for late onset repigmentation are in life and localization in the extremities and lips. RecomendacionesExisten several recommendations for people with vitiligo: & n bsp; Avoid stress as a trigger for the disease. & N bsp; Educate friends and relatives to overcome the idea that the disease is contagious. Because the area has no melanin pigmentation (the body’s natural protection against sunburn) they are less sensitive to sun exposure are therefore recommended to always wear a high factor sunscreen, wear long sleeves and a hat and this prevents the skin surrounding the vitiligo stain to darken more making it more visible.