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Vitiligo - white patches on the skin

- This is a type of skin disease when the dermis loses pigmentation of natural origin against the background of the destruction of melanin. As a result of this process, some areas of the skin lose color, which creates the effect of white spots or variegation. The disease has been known since ancient times, and in Russia among the common people it was called "dog", which is most likely due to the appearance of the patient.

In medical practice, in addition to the name "vitiligo", you can find another definition of this skin pathology, which sounds like leukoderma. If we turn to Latin, we can understand the origin of this word, in translation it means white skin.

As for statistics, according to some data, up to 1% of the world's population suffers from vitiligo. The disease does not depend on a specific population, however, in dark-skinned people, the spots are more noticeable. Most often, the disease manifests itself at the age of 10 to 30 years, this period accounts for up to 50% of all cases of pathology.

Vitiligo symptoms

The main symptom of the disease is the appearance of spots on the skin that have a milky white color and clearly defined boundaries. The most susceptible to vitiligo are such parts of the body as the face (the area around the mouth, ears, eyes, nose), arms and legs (their back side, fingertips, elbows, feet, knees), the groin area and the perianal area. Spots can appear on the scalp, including in the area of ​​​​the beard and mustache in males.

There are several types of spots, the following types of depigmentation can be noted:

At the point of transition of the skin subject to the pathological process to healthy, a pigmented contour is observed, the spots themselves have three colors.

Spots of four colors, which are limited to a border with pronounced pigmentation.

Spots are inflamed areas that are limited to a slightly raised shaft.

Spots that have a bluish color.

In addition, the disease may be accompanied by the following symptoms:

Alopecia nest form;

Choreoretinitis, in which the back of the eye becomes inflamed and;

Graying of hair or their lightening in areas affected by vitiligo;

Chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;

In the affected areas, sweating processes are disturbed, the skin stops responding to cold and other irritants, muscle-hair and vasomotor reflexes disappear;

Often vitiligo is accompanied by various kinds;

Decreased functionality of the liver to resist toxins.

As for other subjective symptoms, the patient does not experience them and for the most part suffers only from a cosmetic defect. Therefore, people with this type of skin disease should avoid contact with the sun, as spots stand out more on tanned skin.

Depending on the localization of the pathological process, it is customary to distinguish the localized clinical form of vitiligo, when the pathological foci are located on a certain area of ​​the skin:

Mucous leukoderma, when mucous membranes are included in the affected area;

Segmental leukoderma, when the foci are located on a skin area that is supplied by a single nerve (cranial or spinal cord);

Focal leukoderma, when the spots occur singly, are localized in one or two skin areas.

Separately, we can distinguish a generalized form of vitiligo, which manifests itself in the fact that skin changes are quite extensive:

Acrofacial leukoderma, when the face and limbs are included in the pathological process;

Vulgar leukoderma, when the foci of the disease are located throughout the body;

Total or universal leukoderma is characterized by the fact that extensive areas of the skin are affected, up to 80%;

Mixed leukodkermia, when there is a combination of acrofascial and vulgar forms of the disease, or segmental, vulgar and acrofascial forms.

Causes of Vitiligo

Vitiligo is not born, this skin pathology begins to form under the influence of a number of external and internal factors. Moreover, the disease rarely manifests itself at an early age, namely up to 10 years. A connection was established with the debut of vitiligo and periods of increased solar activity in summer and spring.

Among the reasons provoking the development of the disease can be identified:

Autoimmune failures in the body are factors provoking the development of the disease. In this case, a malfunction occurs and the antibodies produced to destroy foreign agents begin to infect healthy tissues. Such conclusions about the relationship between vitiligo and processes were made on the basis of the fact that people with skin lesions often have concomitant, disease, systemic, etc.

The link between vitiligo and genetics has been proven experimentally. Scientist R. Spitz, working at the University of Colorado, has established a family predisposition to the development of this skin pathology. In addition, it has been scientifically proven that if a person has brown eyes, then the risk of developing the disease is higher than that of owners of gray and blue eyes.

endocrine gland. Serious disruptions in the work of the endocrine gland, as well as fluctuations in hormone levels, can provoke the onset of the disease. This group of causes will be combined into neuroendocrine. In addition, disturbances in the work of the pancreas, ovaries, pituitary gland and adrenal glands can have an impact.

Trophic disorders of the skin, which are caused by its various injuries (, and microtraumas). Vitiligo begins to form in previously damaged areas, as an inflammatory reaction is triggered in these places, which has an autoimmune component. In this case, the cells that produce melanin are destroyed. At the same time, the more often a person exposes the skin to sunlight, the faster the process of depigmentation develops. That is, trophic disorders are another reason for the formation of vitiligo.

Taking certain medicines can provoke the onset of the pathological process.

Liver diseases that lead to stagnation of bile and changes in the parenchyma of the organ, which has a direct impact on the development of vitiligo.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract such as dysbacteriosis, malabsorption syndrome. Violation of the process of absorption of enzymes leads to the fact that the skin does not receive the necessary nutrients (zinc, copper, manganese, magnesium) for the normal formation of melanin.

Exposure to various chemicals on the skin. These can be low-quality cosmetics, phenol and reagents containing it, formaldehyde, etc.

Doctors rightly believe that vitiligo is the body's most powerful signal of trouble in general. Indeed, often the disease starts after a viral infection, after intoxication, after a physical injury, especially after a head injury.

Thyroid gland as the cause of vitiligo

The figures show that disorders in the functioning of the thyroid gland cause the development of vitiligo. So problems with this organ are observed on average in 10.4% of patients with this skin pathology.

Among the diseases associated with thyroid disorders in vitiligo are:

Goiter 1 and 2 degrees, without changes in thyroid function is very common, the number of patients reaches 86%. At the same time, an increase in TSH, AT TG and AG TPO hormones is observed, against the background of a decrease.

12% of patients with vitiligo have hyperthyroidism. In this pathological process, there is an increased production of hormones with all the ensuing consequences: weight loss, anxiety, nervousness, increased blood pressure, etc.

Hypothyroidism in vitiligo, it is much less common, in only 2% of patients. In this case, symptoms such as: lethargy, fatigue, passivity are observed.

As can be seen from the above statistics, the relationship between vitiligo and thyroid dysfunction is obvious.

It is customary to distinguish several stages of the disease. Among them are:

progressive stage of the disease. This stage is spoken of when, within three months, there is a significant increase in the size of the spot, the growth of old depigmented areas begins, or all new formations appear. Vitiligo can progress slowly, with new lesions appearing next to the first patch over several months. Slow progression is considered to be the natural development of the disease. However, there is also fulminant vitiligo. In this case, the patient has an increase in the number of spots throughout the body for several weeks.

initial stage, in which a single spot is formed on the skin. Depending on the nature of the disease, this stage will later move into a progressive, stable or repigmentation stage.

stationary stage, which is characterized by the fact that the patient has one spot on the skin, which is in a stable condition. It does not grow for a long time period, new formations do not appear.

repigmentation stage. Most often, this stage occurs with the spontaneous formation of a spot caused by therapeutic measures, for example, taking certain medications. Unfortunately, independent and complete repigmentation in this form of skin disease is extremely rare.

Why is vitiligo dangerous?

It is generally accepted that this disease does not pose a direct threat to human life or health. However, vitiligo itself is most often the result of any disturbances in the body, which should not be ignored.

Therefore, if a person has vitiligo, you should pay attention to:

The functioning of the thyroid gland.

Taking medications, they may not be suitable and require immediate replacement.

For the presence of other skin diseases, in particular, psoriasis, baldness, etc.

On malfunctions of the immune system and on the factors provoking these disorders. In addition, there is information about the relationship between vitiligo and.

For frequent stress or mental instability.

On the lack of nutrients in the body.

Vitiligo is often observed with progressive myopia.

Therefore, if, in addition to vitiligo, a person is concerned about any other accompanying symptoms, this must be reported at the doctor's appointment. In addition, patients often need psychological help, since such a pronounced cosmetic defect can lead to psychological trauma, the development of an inferiority complex about their own appearance, etc.

Is vitiligo transmitted?

Is vitiligo hereditary?

The question of whether the disease is inherited has been repeatedly studied by various scientists. There is no consensus, but most studies indicate that there is a certain combination of genes that is responsible for the manifestation of vitiligo in members of the same family. Therefore, it is generally accepted that the risk of hereditary transmission varies from 15 to 40%.

But at the same time, spots are not formed without fail, but only under the influence of risk factors. Therefore, a child of parents who suffer from vitiligo can live a lifetime without experiencing the symptoms of this disease. However, children with a positive family history are at increased risk.

Scientists have studied certain haplotypes that are most common in patients with vitiligo. But their frequency of occurrence is constantly changing and depends on the specific population under study. Therefore, nevertheless, special attention should be paid to the factors that precede depigmentation.

Can vitiligo be passed from mother to child?

Naturally, mothers with vitiligo are wondering if there is a risk of transmitting skin pathology to the child. In this case, it is important not to confuse: a person born into the world does not have the disease itself, but a predisposition to its development.

Therefore, if the mother or other family members have vitiligo, it is necessary that the child be exposed to trigger factors as little as possible. Among them are psychological and physical injuries, exposure to ultraviolet rays, burns, etc.

If the disease affects a woman during pregnancy, then this does not affect her course and does not pose a threat to the fetus. However, during the bearing of a child, the hormonal background is disturbed, which can lead to the rapid spread of the disease. In newborns, signs of vitiligo are extremely rarely observed, and even if the disease is inherited, as a rule, it will first manifest itself after 9 years. Therefore, if a baby has white spots on the skin, then it would be more appropriate to suspect psoriasis, white or, as well as. But unlike vitiligo, these formations will peel off.

Can vitiligo be transmitted from person to person?

Since the disease is quite common and in the immediate environment you can often meet a person suffering from vitiligo, the question of the transmission of the disease by airborne droplets or otherwise is quite natural.

The answer to this question is unequivocally negative. This disease is not infectious and a person suffering from it does not pose a danger to others in terms of infection. Therefore, you can fearlessly communicate with people who have spots on the skin of the corresponding origin.

If one or more white spots appear on the skin, then you need to go to an appointment with a dermatologist. He will examine the skin with a specialized lamp and determine the nature of depigmentation. If necessary, material will be taken to clarify the diagnosis. These procedures are important, as it is necessary to be able to distinguish vitiligo from other skin diseases.

With regard to therapy, despite the cases of complete and spontaneous healing of vitiligo that have occurred in medicine, there is a high risk that the disease will progress without the availability of appropriate treatment. Due to the fact that pathology is often accompanied by concomitant diseases, it is important to correctly use drugs of various groups.

Treatment with glucocorticoids (means aimed at suppressing autoimmune processes and allergic reactions) is indicated for:

Localized form of the disease. In this case, it is advisable to use ointments. To begin with, funds with an average activity are prescribed. Among them, hydrocortisone butyrate, Esperson, Alcometasone, Fluorocort, Triacort and others can be distinguished. The course should last at least 3 months. If no effect is observed, then ointments with a higher activity are shown. Among them are Elocom, Kutiveit, Sinalar, Dermovate, Beloderm and others. These funds should not be used without interruption for more than 8 weeks. The course will need to be repeated after 1 to 4 months.

Generalizedform of the disease. However, in this case, the use of drugs in tablet form is indicated. Since when taking glucocorticoids inside there is a high risk of developing Iceno-Cushing's syndrome, it is necessary to use pulse therapy in parallel, and the funds themselves should be taken intermittently. Among this group of drugs used to treat the generalized form of vitiligo, Triamcinolone, Dexamethasone, Prednisolone, Methylprednisolone can be distinguished.

Since an ultraviolet lamp is often used to treat vitiligo, doctors prescribe photosensitizers to patients. They increase the sensitivity of melanocytes to ultraviolet radiation.

Among the plant furocoumarins are:

Psoberan isolated from figs;

Isolated from psoralea Psoralen.

In addition, there are such tools as Elidel and Protopic. They are most often prescribed for the treatment of psoriasis and various dermatitis. But in some cases, they are effective in the fight against vitiligo. They are applied externally and have an anti-inflammatory effect, suppressing T-lymphocytes and inhibiting the body's immune response. Their action is in some way similar to the effect that can be achieved by using glucocorticoids.

Elidel and Protopic can be used in both adults and children. However, the concentration of the active substance in the ointments will vary (for children - 0.03%, for adults 0.1%). Treatment should be a course and, depending on the stage and form of the disease, it can last from three to six months. The advantage of these funds is that they are not absorbed into the blood, providing a local effect.

Systemic therapy is aimed at eliminating hormonal disorders, at removing patients from depression, at eliminating mental and other diseases of the nervous system, which are often triggers in the development of vitiligo. It is important that the patient make up for the deficiency of trace elements and. Therefore, he is shown the appointment of complexes containing ascorbic acid and copper in their composition. Also, a doctor may prescribe antioxidants and immunomodulators.

Medicine does not stand still and methods for the treatment of vitiligo are constantly being improved. New ways to fight the disease include:

Laser treatment or laser therapy. In this case, the affected areas of the skin are affected by radiation having a certain wavelength. This method is similar to phototherapy. The greatest effect can be achieved in the treatment of local forms of the disease (for patients with segmental, focal and vulgar forms), when the patient has been suffering from vitiligo for no more than five years. You do not have to spend a long time under the laser, the initial procedures take only a few seconds.

The skin whitening procedure helps to make spots less noticeable. In this case, the alignment of its tone occurs. For this purpose, various injections are used, the most popular are Elokvin, Monobenzone and Hydroquinone. But before deciding on such procedures, it is worth learning more about the presence of contraindications, since each of these drugs is very aggressive and has certain side effects. In addition, the drugs are expensive, and they will need to be administered regularly.

Surgical intervention (melanocytic transplantation). If vitiligo has not affected large areas of the skin, then you can turn to surgery and autotransplantation. But this method is fraught with complications in the form of rejection and suppuration of the transplanted area. In addition, no doctor is able to guarantee a stable and lasting effect.

Transfer of own pigment cells(melanocytes) of a person from intact skin areas to the problem area.

Using Melagenin Plus- an alcoholic extract isolated from the human placenta. The drug is most effective if the patient suffers from a localized form of the disease.

A drugscenes. In the future, a drug developed in Austria called Sceness can be used to treat vitiligo. It is currently used for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria.

In addition, scientists do not abandon attempts to develop a vaccine that can eliminate the autoimmune reaction that leads to the development of the disease.

In addition, more and more evidence indicates that combined treatment is most effective, when surgical treatment is supplemented by several non-surgical methods of exposure.

Also, in rare cases, the doctor manages to detect a connection between vitiligo and an external or internal factor. Eliminating them, you can stop the pathological process. In particular, by saving the patient from helminthic invasion or by stopping contact with a certain chemical.

As for recommendations regarding the nutrition of the patient, he needs to include foods enriched with copper in his diet. Among these: seafood, apples,. In addition, it is worth including rice, oats and oats in the diet, as they contain zinc.

There are no specific preventive measures to prevent the development of the disease. However, persons with a burdened history are advised to stay in the sun as little as possible and treat diseases that are provocateurs of this skin pathology in a timely manner.

Ultraviolet lamp for the treatment of vitiligo (UVB therapy)

At this point in time, ultraviolet lamps are increasingly being used in the treatment of vitiligo. This method is very effective and is based on the effect of ultraviolet radiation on the affected areas of the skin. It is a mistake to call all types of ultraviolet exposure the term PUVA, because they have some differences.

So, when irradiating the skin with type A waves using drugs, both of plant and synthetic origin (psoralens), there are a number of serious contraindications and complications. Among them is the risk of developing and carcinoma of the skin. In addition, this procedure cannot be performed by pregnant women, the elderly, over 60 years old, children, patients with oncological diseases who have pathologies of the kidneys, liver, heart and blood vessels. Side effects that often occur during the procedure are nausea and a burning sensation.

Therefore, in recent years, more and more patients with vitiligo are prescribed ultraviolet radiation, which has a narrower spectrum of action, when the wavelength is 310 nm. In this case, the patient experiences fewer side effects, and the risk of developing malignant skin lesions is reduced.

Narrow-wave therapy does not require the indispensable intake of photosensitizers, while its effectiveness is higher than irradiation with type A waves. There are much fewer contraindications to such a procedure, these are: cataracts and the absence of a lens, the presence of autoimmune diseases.

The risk of side effects when using narrow-wave therapy is significantly reduced. As a rule, the patient complains of unexpressed itching and dry skin. Burns can only occur if the dosage has been exceeded.

As for the procedure, the exposure time of the lamp to places with thin skin (in particular, the facial area) should not be more than 2 minutes. Feet, hands and elbows can be irradiated for 5 minutes. You should not expect an instant effect, after the first procedure, you will not be able to get rid of vitiligo. Sessions are most often held three times a week. At the same time, the doctor can recommend up to 200 procedures, which a patient with vitiligo needs to be prepared for. To achieve the effect, a course effect is required. If the skin turns red after irradiation, then it is necessary to apply any cream used for burns. During irradiation, it is important to use special glasses that will protect the lens and retina of the eye.

What vitamins to take with vitiligo?

Conducted scientific studies prove that the intake of certain vitamins (for example, E, C, alpha-lipoic acid) affects the course of the disease and can enhance the therapeutic effect. Therefore, doctors often prescribe certain drugs to patients with this skin disease. Among the most popular are thiamine, ascorbic acid, pantothenic acid and riboflavin.

The role of folic acid

In Sweden, studies have been conducted on the effect of folic acid and vitamin B12 on vitiligo. The study involved 100 patients with vitiligo, all of whom took 5 mg of folic acid twice a day and 1 mg of vitamin B12 once a day. A prerequisite was daily exposure to the skin with ultraviolet rays. Exactly 3 months later, the results were in. More than half of all participants achieved positive results, and several patients were completely cured by 100%.

Some medications used for vitiligo

Melagenin

Melangenin is used to treat vitiligo as an external agent. It is able to restore the pigmentation of the skin, due to the enhancement of its ability to absorb ultraviolet rays.

Currently, the drug Melagenin Plus is actively used, which acts in the same way as melagenin, but its effect is enhanced by calcium chloride and an alcoholic extract of the human placenta. This allows cells to multiply more actively and synthesize melanin at a higher bioavailability.

The remedy is used even in the most severe cases of vitiligo. At the same time, reviews indicate that the depigmentation process does not return, and normal skin is not damaged.

The drug can not be used during childbearing and during breastfeeding. It can be used independently, without additional exposure to an infrared lamp.

Ammifurin

Means Ammifurin is a photosensitizing drug that is prescribed to patients with vitiligo when exposed to ultraviolet rays. Available in the form of tablets and solution for external use, it stimulates the production of melanin.

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It is important to use glasses with dark glasses that protect the eyes while taking the drug in the sunny time of the day. In terms of effectiveness, the best results in the treatment of vitiligo have been recorded in young people with a short duration of the disease, as well as in brunettes and patients prone to tanning.

The tool can not be used alone, without strict medical supervision.

Vitasan

Vitasan is available in the form of a cream and consists exclusively of natural ingredients. It is able to have a complex effect: it regulates immune processes, has a sensitizing effect, stimulates the production of melanocytes.

The composition of the tool includes components such as:

One of the most unexplored diseases that are very difficult to treat is Vitiligo. It is represented by white spots that occur on the skin of people at different ages. White spots are the result of the absence of melanin (pigment) in the skin layers. This article will tell you in detail what are the symptoms, causes and methods of treating folk remedies at home for vitiligo in children and adults, show photos of patients and give useful tips.
vitiligo disease causes

Features of the disease

Vitiligo occurs in different countries. The most unpleasant thing is that this disease has become increasingly common in people of all ages. The reason for this wide prevalence has not been determined.

Most often, women go to the hospital, as well as young people whose age is less than 20 years. The disease brings inconvenience to about 1% of the world's population.

Doctors believe that this pathology does not pose a danger to health. At the same time, white spots indicate the presence of any serious disorders in the body. Also, people are concerned about the aesthetic issue. The disease manifests itself in the form of white spots, which are an unpleasant cosmetic defect.

Vitiligo is a poorly understood dermatological disease. It does not cause specific unpleasant sensations, discomfort, but the patient is guaranteed psychological and aesthetic problems.

The pathology under consideration was included in the group of "skin dyschromia" (dyschromia cutis). Translating from the Greek violation of skin pigmentation: "dys" - difficulty, dysfunction, "chroma" - color, color.

In the normal state, skin color is provided by such pigments:

• Carotene (yellow);
• Melanin (brown);
• Recovered hemoglobin (blue);
• Hemoglobin oxygenated (red).

Affects the change in the color of the skin. The disease in question (vitiligo) is also popularly called “white spot disease”, “dog”, “leukopathy”, “piebald skin”. Translated from Latin, vitiligo means flaw, defect. This disease is considered to be an acquired primary skin dyschromia. But a third of cases are genetically transmitted.

This video tells about what vitiligo is:

Vitiligo stages

Doctors distinguish 4 stages in vitiligo:

• I. Initial. It is characterized by the formation of a single spot on the skin. Depending on the characteristics of its development, this stage flows into one of the following.
• II. Stationary. The patient has only one spot, which does not grow for a long period, it is in a stable condition. Additional neoplasms do not appear on the epithelium of the patient.
• III. Repigmentation. It is characteristic of those cases when depigmentation was provoked by therapeutic measures, taking medications. This stage is very rare.
• IV. Progressive. It is characterized by an increase in the number, size of white spots for several months (2 - 3). Progression can occur slowly (new spots appear very slowly around the old formation), lightning fast (the number of spots throughout the body increases rapidly. In just a week, many new white spots appear).

Forms

Given such a feature as localization, the nature of the spread, in clinical practice it is customary to distinguish 3 forms of the disease:

1. Focal. Spots are formed on different parts of the body, in foci.
2. generalized. White spots appear all over the body.
3. Universal. Depigmentation is observed on almost the entire epidermis.

Focal has 3 varieties:

• Focal. The presence in one focus of one, several spots.
• Segmental. White spots are grouped in the area of ​​the plexus of nerves or localized in their direction.
• Mucous. Spots are formed only on the mucous membranes.

The generalized form also has its own varieties:

• Acrofascial. There is a lesion of the epithelium on the hands, feet, face.
• vulgar. Spots randomly cover the epidermis of the entire body.
• mixed. It is characterized by a mixture of individual varieties, for example, vulgar + acrofascial, segmental + vulgar, acrofascial + segmental.

Dermatologists have identified 2 types of the disease (A, B):

• And "non-segmental". It is characterized by the absence of a violation of the sympathetic nervous system. In such cases, the disease in question is associated with autoimmune diseases.
• In "segmental". Violation of pigmentation is localized in the direction of the nerves, their plexuses. It is associated with a violation of the sympathetic nervous system.

Causes

In rare cases, there is an influence of a genetic factor on the occurrence of vitiligo. But this disease is not congenital. Its occurrence depends on the influence of certain factors (external, internal). Specialists noted an increase in cases of the disease during periods of increased solar activity (summer, spring).

The disease develops in the presence of such factors:

• Genetic. The relationship between genetics and disease has been experimentally proven. R. Spitz (a scientist working in the state of Colorado) confirmed the presence of a family predisposition to the occurrence of this pathology. Those with brown eyes are more at risk of developing vitiligo.
• The presence of autoimmune failures. When immune function is impaired, healthy cells of the body are affected by antibodies. These conclusions were made by doctors who, in practice, noticed that patients suffering from skin lesions often have a concomitant disease (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid dysfunction).
• Taking medications.
• Violation of the functioning of the endocrine gland. Malfunctions in the work of this gland, a change in the level of hormones can cause the development of vitiligo.
• Violation of the ovaries, adrenal glands, pancreas, pituitary gland.
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Due to impaired absorption of enzymes in diseases such as malabsorption, dysbacteriosis, the necessary nutrients (magnesium, copper, zinc, manganese) enter the skin in insufficient quantities. Without these nutrients, melanocytes (special cells) cannot produce enough melanin for pigmentation.
• Violation of the trophism of the epithelium. Typically, trophic disorders are the result of trauma to the epithelium (microtrauma, burns, scars).
• Tyrosinase enzyme deficiency.
• The action of chemicals. The skin can be affected by low-quality cosmetics, formaldehyde, phenol.
• Violation of the functioning of the autonomic nervous system.

Vitiligo occurs when the body is weakened by injuries, infections, intoxication.

Read about the signs and symptoms of vitiligo skin disease in children and adults below.

Symptoms

The appearance of vitiligo is evidenced by the formation of white spots, perhaps initially only one such spot will appear. The depigmented spot has a milky white color, its size is small (diameter 0.2 - 0.3 cm). Over time, such a spot grows, similar neoplasms appear around it. Their shape can be oval, round, the boundaries of the depigmented area are clearly defined.

Scales do not form over white spots, the spot does not rise above the pigmented skin, it is located on a par with it. On the edge of the spot / focus of spots, an accumulation of pigment is visible. It turns out. That the spot is clearly outlined by a dark ring on the border with a healthy area of ​​​​the epidermis. Blotches of intense pigmentation can even be found inside the depigmented area.

From the primary spots, which are small in size, large foci are formed over time, which have an irregular shape. The edges of such a focus are also endowed with enhanced pigmentation.

Pigmentation often affects open areas of the body (neck, hands, feet, face, elbows, fingers, legs. Less commonly, the disease is localized in the near-anal region, groin area, on the scalp). In men, spots can form in the area of ​​​​the mustache, beard. Merging into foci, depigmented spots can spread to the entire abdomen, buttocks, and back.

The spread of the focus of the disease to the whole body is very rare.

Hair in the area of ​​depigmentation also loses color, becomes discolored. There was a violation of the functioning of the sweat glands. In the sun, the diseased areas do not sunbathe, but the area with hyperpigmentation surrounding the spot becomes darker, more saturated.

Vitiligo is sometimes accompanied by the following symptoms:

• lichen planus;
• alopecia nest form;
• psoriasis;
• chorioretinitis;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with a chronic course.

Vitiligo symptoms

Diagnostics

Differential diagnosis is required to make an accurate diagnosis. This disease is differentiated from the following:

• pityriasis versicolor;
• idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis;
• partial albinism;
• chemical, true, post-inflammatory leukoderma;
• leprosy;
• multi-colored lichen.

The patient needs to undergo a comprehensive examination. It includes many studies:

• general blood analysis;
• examination of the epithelium with a Wood's lamp;
• examination with a video dermatoscope;
• to detect the complete / partial absence of melanocytes;
• blood for the Wasserman reaction.

Knowing the causes of vitiligo disease, consider its treatment.

Treatment

Vitiligo is considered an intractable disease. Until now, scientists have not been able to pinpoint the cause of depigmentation. Also, the mechanism of the development of the disease is not fully understood. In very rare cases, the disease goes away on its own, without any therapeutic measures. Although modern medicine has given people the opportunity to apply various medical therapeutic methods, it is possible to cure the disease completely only in some cases.

Therapeutic therapy is prescribed by the doctor after the examination. Treatment is selected taking into account such features:

• age;
• somatic status;
• stage of development of the disease;
• the size of the affected area;
• spot localization.

The video below will talk about the treatment of vitiligo:

Therapeutic way

Given the progress in the field of medicine, the treatment of vitiligo began to be performed by various methods, among them we highlight:

• laser therapy;
• Phytotherapy.
• Macro-, microelement therapy.
• Therapy with glucocorticosteroids.
• Whitening of the epithelium;
• The use of the drug "Melagenin plus".

Specialists are busy developing a vaccine, the action of which is to eliminate the autoimmune reaction that often provokes the development of the disease.

According to medical practice, complex treatment brings the maximum effect. In this case, non-surgical methods of therapy are combined with surgical ones. Stopping the pathological process depends on the accuracy in detecting the factor (external, internal) that provoked the development of the disease.

In the treatment of vitiligo, UVB therapy is also used. The affected areas of the epidermis are exposed to ultraviolet radiation. For the best effect, it is worth using waves whose length is 310 nm. Narrow-wave therapy is considered more effective than exposure to type A rays.

In a medical way

For the treatment of vitiligo, the following drugs are used:

• "Thiamin".
• "Riboflavin".
• "Vitamin C".
• Vitamins C, E, B 12.
• "Melagenin".
• VITISKIN Gel.
• Vitasan.
• "Ammifurin".

Operation

Surgical treatment, which involves melanocytic transplantation, autotransplantation. But doctors still do not guarantee a lasting, long-term effect from the operation.

We will deliberately not describe how to treat the skin disease of vitiligo in children and adults with folk remedies, since there is no sense in such treatment.

Disease prevention

Specialists did not find certain preventive measures. But doctors recommend:

• less time to stay;
• carry out hardening procedures;
• take vitamins.

Complications

One of the significant complications is the formation of sun due to the loss of the skin's protective function.

Forecast

For those suffering from this disease, the prognosis will certainly seem unpleasant. Vitiligo is chronic.

It is almost impossible to cure it. Doctors can only stop the development of the disease.

In the video below, the girl shares her ways of treating vitiligo:

Vitiligo- a chronic disease in which white spots appear on the skin, prone to growth and fusion. In addition to the skin, the hair, retina and meninges can be affected. Patients do not experience pain, itching or other unpleasant sensations, however, appearance defects significantly disrupt the psychological state.

In limited areas of the skin, the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of the skin and hair, stops. As a result, milky white spots appear in this place. Pigment loss can occur quickly over several hours or slowly over several months.

Causes of vitiligo. The development of the disease is associated with a deficiency of zinc and copper in the body, exposure to heavy metals and other toxins, infectious diseases, injuries, neurosis, depression, hormonal imbalance (diabetes, thyroid pathology). But heredity plays a leading role. For example, singer Michael Jackson, who suffered from vitiligo, passed the disease on to his eldest son.

Statistics. Vitiligo is a common skin disease. The number of patients reaches 0.5-8% of the world's population, which is about 40 million people. Vitiligo often appears at a young age: 50% of patients are people 10-30 years old. The onset of the disease in people older than 40 years is rare. The rise in incidence is noted in the spring and summer months, when the skin is more exposed to sunlight.

In general, men and women are equally affected. But women are more likely to turn to European doctors for skin depigmentation, and men to Asian doctors.

Story. From the Latin "vitiligo" is translated as "vicious disease". Ancient healers mistakenly associated its appearance with syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections. In the Middle Ages, white spots on the skin were considered a manifestation of the most dangerous infectious disease - leprosy (leprosy). And only in the middle of the nineteenth century, vitiligo was identified as a separate disease and proved that it is not contagious.

There is no effective method of treatment that guarantees getting rid of vitiligo. Approximately 20% of people fail to achieve lasting improvement with the help of drugs. However, 7% of patients spontaneously heal.

What determines skin color?

Leather- a complex organ that covers the human body. Its color depends on the functioning of special cells - melanocytes that release pigment melanin.

Skin structure

• Epidermis- the outer layer, which is formed by stratified keratinized epithelium. In it, in turn, there are 2 main functional layers:
  • Growth (basal) layer - active processes of cell division take place in it, ensuring the regeneration and renewal of the epidermis. Melanocytes are located precisely in the basal layer.
  • The stratum corneum - consists of dead keratinized cells. Performs a protective function.
• Dermis- the skin itself, separated from the epidermis by a basement membrane. Functions: provides support and nutrition to the epidermis, provides local immunity. There are 2 layers in the dermis:
  • Papillary - represented by loose fibrous connective tissue, which contains immune cells (basophils, macrophages and T-lymphocytes) and loops of capillaries.
  • Mesh - consists of dense fibrous connective tissue that performs a supporting function.

Cellular composition of the epidermis

• Keratinocytes or epitheliocytes (85%) - cells that form the basis of the epithelium of the skin.
• Langerhans cells(10-15%) - cells that receive information about antigens (viruses, bacteria). They interact with lymphocytes and other immune cells, activating local skin immunity.
• Merkel cells(2-3%) - are responsible for the sensitivity of the skin, provide touch.
• melanocytes(up to 10%) - cells with large dark nuclei and a large number of processes located in the thickness of the basal layer. Skin pigment - melanin is produced and matures in special organelles - melanosomes.

Through the processes, the pigment is transported to the surrounding keratinocytes. Each melanocyte provides about 10 surrounding cells with pigment.

Melanin production process

Melanin formed in melanocytes from the amino acid tyrosine, which enters the body with food and is synthesized in the liver from phenylalanine. This process occurs with the participation of a copper-containing enzyme - tyrosinase, a substance that converts tyrosine into melanin, as well as zinc and oxygen.

The formation of melanin occurs in several stages:

1. Melanocytes receive chemical signals from surrounding cells and produce the enzyme tyrosinase.
2. Under the action of the enzyme, tyrosine is converted into melanin. Pigment grains mature in rounded "capacities" of melanosomes.
3. Through the processes of melanocytes, melanin is transported to surrounding cells and absorbed by them. The degree of saturation of keratinocytes with pigment depends on the race, the individual characteristics of the organism, the degree of sunlight.

Violation of the functioning of melanocytes or their death leads to a decrease in the amount of melanin in the cells of the epidermis and the development of vitiligo.

Causes of Vitiligo

Modern medicine has not established the exact cause of the appearance of white spots on the skin. However, it is known that in patients the production of DOPA oxidase and tyrosinase enzymes associated with the formation of melanin is impaired.

Possible mechanisms for the development of vitiligo:

• Theory of self-destruction after infections or as a result of exposure to toxins, melanocytes are reborn. They produce toxic products that damage cell walls.


• autoimmune theory- due to a defect in immunity, melanin is destroyed by immune cells. They perceive the pigment as a foreign organism and attack it.


• Biochemical disorders– free radicals (hydrogen peroxide) accumulate in the skin. In this regard, the production of an enzyme - catalase, designed to neutralize them, decreases. Free radicals damage melanocytes and lead to skin discoloration.


• genetic theory. In 2007, British scientists were able to identify the NALP1 gene for vitiligo, which is inherited. People who have this gene get vitiligo.

Causes of vitiligo and pathologies that increase the likelihood of the disease

• genetic predisposition. Vitiligo is passed from parents to children as a dominant trait. This means that if one of the parents is sick, then the probability that the children will develop the same pathology is 50%. Even if vitiligo has arisen under the influence of injuries or other causes, the disease is fixed at the genetic level and is subsequently transmitted to descendants.
• Disorders of the endocrine glands:
  • thyroid gland
  • liver
  • pancreas
  • ovaries
  • pituitary-adrenal system
  Failure of the endocrine glands leads to disruption of the formation of enzymes in melanocytes.
• Disorders of the nervous system:
  • strong emotional upheaval
  After mental trauma, neuroendocrine changes occur and the innervation of certain areas of the skin is disturbed. Melanocytes do not receive neurochemical commands to produce melanin.
• Skin damage
  • burns, including solar;
  • scars formed after injuries;
  • microtraumas that occur when rubbing with seams of clothing, jewelry.
  When the skin is damaged, the basal layer of the epidermis, in which melanocytes are located, is injured. In some cases, the cells do not regenerate. In immune pathology, damaged melanocytes can be attacked and destroyed by immune cells.
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
  • intestinal invasions;
  • malsorption syndrome.
  Diseases of the digestive system cause a change in the chemical composition of the blood and a deficiency of enzymes in the cells. Malabsorption leads to a lack of magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc, which are necessary for the formation of pigment.
• Exposure to chemicals on the skin
  • low-quality cosmetics;
  • formaldehyde;
  • phenol and phenol-containing reagents used in the production of paints, rubber, cables;
  • other chemically aggressive substances.
  Work in hazardous industries is one of the most common causes of vitiligo. Chemicals affect the cells of the epidermis and disrupt their functioning. In this case, a change of job can lead to spontaneous self-healing.
• Decreased immunity
  • operations;
  • excessive exercise and sports.

Factors that reduce immunity can provoke the appearance of foci of vitiligo, especially in people with a genetic predisposition.

Symptoms of vitiligo (photo)

Symptom	Origin mechanism	Manifestations	A photo
The onset of the disease is a single spot	In melanocytes, the synthesis of melanin decreases or completely stops.	The first symptom is a spot on the surface of the skin or mucous membranes. It can be rounded or with "torn" edges. The stain fades gradually or over several hours.
Hyperpigmentation around the lesion	An inflammatory process develops around the focus, which is accompanied by increased synthesis of melanin.	The spot is surrounded by a rim darker than healthy skin. This feature distinguishes vitiligo from other skin discoloration conditions.
The tendency of spots to grow and merge	Peripheral growth of foci is associated with the involvement of new melanocytes in the process.	White spots increase in size and merge with each other. The growth rate of foci depends on the individual characteristics of the organism.
Localization - any area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin or mucous membranes, except for the feet and soles	The skin on the palms and feet does not contain melanin, so spots do not appear in these areas.	Mostly spots are formed on the flexion and extensor surfaces of the limbs, on the face, in the armpits on the buttocks, around scars and in places of constant skin trauma.
Symmetrical lesion	For unknown reasons, the spots are arranged symmetrically on the body.	In most cases, the spots on the right and left sides of the body are identical.
Hair discoloration in the affected area.	In the affected area, the hair follicles lose melanin.	Inside the focus, vellus hair and the scalp on the head become discolored. In 30% of patients, early gray hair is found.
Reticular vitiligo	Many small foci of depigmentation are formed, located close to each other.	On the skin of the genital organs, the inner surface of the thighs and on the chest, dotted foci of discoloration appear, located in a gray area.

Diagnosis of the Cause of Vitiligo

Vitiligo is diagnosed and treated by a dermatologist. The diagnosis of "vitiligo" sometimes causes difficulties for physicians, since its symptoms are similar to a fungal infection, color deprivation, depigmented nevus, partial albinism.

Interview. During the collection of an anamnesis, the doctor finds out:

• whether any of the relatives have the same clinical symptoms, whether there is a hereditary predisposition to vitiligo;
• whether the patient suffers from autoimmune diseases that often accompany vitiligo (especially Hashimoto's thyroiditis);
• when did the onset of the disease occur and how quickly did it progress;
• whether there was an exacerbation over the past 6 months - growth and the appearance of new foci;
• features of the acquisition of sunburn. This information is necessary when prescribing phototherapy.

Inspection. The doctor identifies external diagnostic criteria for vitiligo to distinguish it from other diseases.

• Symmetrical arrangement of spots. Only in 10% of cases one side of the body is affected. Rashes can be located along the nerve or its plexuses.
• The foci are round, in 10-15% they may have an irregular shape or be punctate.
• Rashes can be represented by single small spots or lead to complete depigmentation of the skin.
• The skin on the lesions does not peel off, is not covered with crusts or erosions. The exception is cases when a secondary infection joins.
• Hair located on the spots lose their color, discolor.
• There are spots around moles.
• The lesions are surrounded by a ring of hyperpigmentation. The dark rim is clearly visible after exposure to medical ultraviolet or sun exposure.
• In the universal form, when a large surface area of ​​the body is affected, areas of healthy skin have a sinking edge.
• Often, depigmented areas appear in places of constant friction with a shirt collar, watch, belt.

Wood's lamp

A Wood's lamp or black light lamp emits ultraviolet A rays and is used to diagnose skin conditions. The lamp is made of dark glass and has a weak glow.

Wood's lamp is used to detect foci of depigmentation in areas of the skin where the sun's rays do not fall: under the hair, in the armpits, on the genitals. The light of the lamp is brightly reflected from the spots, which makes it possible to consider their number, shape and color transitions. The foci of the disease have a bluish-white color.

Skin biopsy

Research is rarely done. A scalpel scrapes off a layer of the epidermis in the center of the focus and on the periphery. Microscopic examination of a sample in patients with vitiligo reveals:

• complete or partial absence of melanocytes
• altered collagen fibers
• a large number of melanosomes in the rim surrounding the focus

Vitiligo treatment

Treatment of vitiligo is aimed at curbing the progression of the disease, reducing its cosmetic manifestations and restoring melanin production.

It is believed that vitiligo cannot be cured with one drug or method - an integrated approach is needed.

Therefore, the treatment of vitiligo includes several areas:

• topical treatments (ointments, creams and lotions)
• general treatment with systemic drugs
• physiotherapy procedures
• treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and other pathologies that provoke vitiligo
• taking vitamin preparations (A, E, B1, B2, C, PP, D), taking minerals, especially copper and zinc
• elimination of provoking factors (friction, pollution)

Ointments and creams for the treatment of vitiligo

Drug group	Representatives	Mechanism of therapeutic action	Mode of application
Corticosteroids	Prednisolone Betamethasone Diprospan	Hormone therapy reduces the immune attack and promotes pigment restoration.	The funds are applied to depigmented areas with a thin layer 1-3 times a day for 3 months. The use of corticosteroids around the eyes is not recommended.
Calcineurin inhibitors	Protopic Elidel	Suppress the attack of the immune system on melanocytes. Reduces signs of inflammation and allergies.	Apply a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin 1-2 times a day. Ointments are gently rubbed until completely absorbed. The duration of treatment is not more than 6 weeks.
Photosensitizing agents	Melaginin Melaginin Plus Psoralen	Enhance skin absorption of ultraviolet rays, restore skin pigmentation.	The preparations are applied to the foci of the disease and gently rubbed 1-3 times a day. After application, it is desirable to expose the skin to low-power irradiation (solar or UV lamp). The course of treatment is 3 months.
An integrated approach to the treatment and care of skin with vitiligo	Vitix gel	Restores the balance of free radicals. Stops the development of the disease and causes repigmentation of the skin.
	Vitix tablets	A food supplement that increases the effectiveness of Vitix gel therapy in the treatment and care of skin affected by vitiligo.
	Gel corrector Viticolor	Camouflages depigmented skin areas.

Signs of improvement with topical treatment of vitiligo become noticeable after 2-6 weeks:

• spots are reduced in size. At the same time, their edges become uneven, scalloped
• the foci change their color, evenly darken
• dark blotches appear inside the spots - foci of melanin production around the hair follicles

Cosmetic preparations for vitiligo

Cosmetics for vitiligo helps to make the manifestations of the disease less noticeable.

• Artificial tanning products- milk, lotion, cream based on dihydroxyacetone. The product is gently rubbed in a circular motion into clean, dry skin. It contains dyes that allow you to achieve the effect of tanned skin.
• Whitening lotions eliminate excessive pigmentation around the foci of the disease. Some companies (Covermark, Dermablend) have developed products specifically for the skin of people with vitiligo.
• Photoprotection with a protection index UPF 15-25 protect depigmented skin from direct sunlight and prevent burns on the affected areas. They must be applied to exposed areas of the body immediately before going outside.

Systemic therapy for vitiligo

Oral drugs are prescribed for the rapid progression of the disease and the ineffectiveness of local treatment for 6 months. To reduce the immune attack on melanin, apply:

• systemic corticosteroids: Prednisolone, Betamethasone, Diprospan;
• immunosuppressants: Levamisole, Cyclosporin A, Cyclophosphamide, Isoprinosine.

Dosage and duration of therapy is determined individually. Treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a physician, as these drugs have a number of side effects.

Physiotherapy for the treatment of vitiligo.

Ultraviolet irradiation (light therapy)

For the treatment of vitiligo, ultraviolet type B is used - medium wavelengths. Irradiation is carried out according to the general (whole body) or local method, when they act exclusively on the affected areas. Sometimes, to enhance the effect, photosensitizing agents are applied to the skin: Melaginin, Psoralen.

Sessions are carried out 2 times a week for 5-10 minutes. The course of treatment takes about a year.

PUVA therapy

PUVA therapy is a treatment method that includes long-spectrum ultraviolet irradiation in the A range, together with photosensitizers. These drugs increase the sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet radiation, and therefore improve the production of melanin. In PUVA therapy, the following are used: Methoxaralen, Trioxaralen, Ammoidin, Meladinin, Lamadin, Puvalen, Oxoralen. Medicines are taken with meals 2-3 hours before the procedure.

The entire body or affected areas are irradiated for 5-30 minutes. The procedure is carried out every other day. To achieve significant results, 100-200 sessions are needed.

Laser therapy

The laser affects the remaining melanocytes and activates their work. Laser therapy improves metabolic processes in the skin and promotes the production of enzymes responsible for the formation of melanin. Irradiation is carried out with two types of lasers:

• red wavelength 0.67 µm
• infrared - wavelength 0.89 µm

The procedure is carried out in biofeedback mode. The radiation is modulated by the patient's pulse and respiration rate. The duration of one procedure is up to 30 minutes. The full course includes 15-20 sessions. A noticeable improvement occurs after the 6th exposure.

Proper treatment of vitiligo can slow the progression of the disease and cause the lesions to grow back. However, 60% of successfully treated patients relapse after some time (months, years).

Surgical treatment of vitiligo

In 20% of cases, conservative treatment of vitiligo does not give the desired result, then surgery is considered. Surgical treatment consists in transplanting one's own healthy melanocytes into foci devoid of pigment.

After the operation, new melanocytes are formed in the deep layers of the epidermis. The process of restoring pigmentation takes several months.

There are several methods of surgical treatment of vitiligo.

• Epidermal transplant. The affected areas of the skin are excised. In their place, an autograft prepared by the PUVA method (a flap of the epidermis from a healthy part of the body) is placed.
• Minitransplants. Areas of healthy skin less than 1 mm in size are transplanted into depigmented foci.
• Transplantation of cultured or non-cultured melanocytes. Individual cells that produce pigment are implanted into the skin.

Indications for surgical treatment of vitiligo

• The foci are located on open areas of the body (face, neck, décolleté, hands). They are a significant cosmetic defect and violate the psychological status of the patient.
• Lack of results from local and systemic therapy for 12 months.
• The disease is in remission. For 1-2 years, new spots do not appear, and existing ones do not grow.

Contraindications:

• tendency to scarring
• intolerance to UV and laser therapy

Side effects of surgical treatment can be:

• scarring
• uneven pigmentation
• rejection of transplanted areas of the epidermis

Prevention of vitiligo.

Prevention of vitiligo is especially relevant for people with a hereditary predisposition.

Preventive measures for vitiligo:

• A balanced, wholesome diet rich in vitamins, zinc and copper. Nutritionists recommend regularly consuming:
  • dairy
  • sea ​​fish, squid and shrimp
  • liver, meat of rabbits and chickens
  • buckwheat and beans
  • bran, seeds, nuts
  • citrus fruits, apples, figs
  • parsley, spinach, celery.
• Phytotherapeutic agents help to normalize the activity of melanocytes. Among them:
  • mountain arnica tincture
  • rosehip berry decoction
  • decoction of nettle leaves.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and tanning beds. Use sunscreen before going outside.
• Avoid rubbing the skin with clothes, jewelry, washcloths, chair backs, exercise equipment.
• Use hypoallergenic cosmetics for sensitive skin.
• Avoid skin contact with chemically active substances.
• If possible, avoid stressful situations, hypothermia, infectious diseases and other factors that reduce immunity.

For people suffering from vitiligo, these tips will help prevent the disease from getting worse.

Skin diseases are an aesthetic and psychological problem, because a person’s self-esteem suffers because of them. So, having discovered the first signs of the disease, it is necessary to find an effective means of therapy that will achieve the desired result and remove the rash. One of the diseases requiring immediate treatment is vitiligo. Photos, symptoms, treatment- all this will be discussed in the article.

Vitiligo what kind of disease

Vitiligo is a type of skin disease in which there is a loss of pigmentation in the dermis due to the destruction of melanin. During this process, some skin areas lose their color scheme, and subsequently a variegated effect is formed on the skin. The disease has been known in Russia since ancient times. According to statistics, about 1% of the population suffers from the disease, while the disease does not depend on the population.

The progression of the disease is in the period of 10-30 years, this time accounts for about 50% of all cases of the disease. Vitiligo itches or not? Sometimes disease may itch before the appearance of new lesions.

Symptoms of manifestation

We'll consider vitiligo what is it and how to deal with the disease. The main symptom of this disease is the formation of white spots on the skin, they have a milky tint and bright borders. Most often appears, the body, limbs, scalp. There are several varieties of spots, and several types of pigmentation can be detected.

• In a place where there is a transition of the skin, subject to a pathological process, to a healthy area, there is a contour. The spots themselves are equipped with three colors.
• Four-color formations, having borders with a pronounced current pigmentation process.
• Inflamed areas that have a somewhat limited raised shaft.
• Formations on which there is a bluish color.

Many are interested in the question of you can sunbathe with vitiligo or not? In fact, there are no definite reasons for refusing to yourself to soak up the sun, but you should know that an excessive amount of ultraviolet radiation has a negative effect on the skin condition. In addition to being bright and active, the disease may be accompanied by several other symptoms.

• Sharp graying of hair;
• Psoriasis;
• scleroderma;
• Diseases associated with the work of the stomach;
• Defeat in the area of ​​sweating;
• Dermatitis;
• Deterioration of hepatic function.

To a greater extent, a sick person suffers from a cosmetic defect, so you should still avoid increased contact with direct sunlight. Many are also interested in the question of can peeling be done with vitiligo, and the answer is no.

Considering the question of how it manifests itself this disease, it is worth noting that there are only a few basic forms of the disease. First, there is a localized form of the disease.

• Mucous type leucoderma;
• Segmental lesion;
• focal disease.

The general form of the disease is manifested in the vastness of changes in the skin.

• , lower extremities, facial part;
• Leucoderma vulgaris;
• Total sign of the disease;
• Combined form of the disease.

So, which is discussed in the article, is a complex pathological process that requires special medical attention.

Vitiligo causes in adults and children

With a disease of this plan, newborns are very rare, since it is acquired. Let's take a closer look at what causes vitiligo - causes and treatment ailment. The disease is usually formed under the influence of several external and internal causal factors. Among the main prerequisites for what occurs, the hands, the front part, the neck and other parts of the body, several nuances can be distinguished.

• Failures in the autoimmune nature provoke the development of the disease. This is a disorder of the immune system, when antibodies begin to damage healthy elements. This conclusion was made in connection with the compatibility of this disease, along with problems of the thyroid gland, lupus.
• Experimental studies have proven the fact that either an adult has a relationship with genetic characteristics. Skin pathology, as it turned out, most often endangers persons with brown eye color.
• The functioning of the endocrine gland can provoke failures in the system, the same can be said about the oscillatory processes of the hormonal level. In addition, the processes of the pancreas, adrenal glands, and ovaries have an influence.
• Problems with the functioning of skin trophism, which is caused by injuries, scars, burns. The disease begins the stage of its formation in the areas that have been affected, so a serious inflammatory process is observed here.
• White spot at any site may occur due to the use of certain groups of drugs for medicinal purposes. The beginning of the pathological process is formed quickly and gradually spreads.
• pigment spot can begin to develop due to diseases associated with the functioning of the liver, stomach, lack of a number of nutrients in the body, during the influence of chemical factors and a certain number of cosmetics.

The disease, in any case, acts as a serious signal that something is wrong in the body. Can vitiligo be cured- the specialist decides, because everything depends on the form of manifestation of the disease and the stage of its progression.

Disease danger

If a disease is found vitiligo (symptoms, photo and treatment considered in the article), it is necessary to pay special attention to the work of several organs.

• Thyroid;
• The use of drugs;
• skin diseases;
• immune factors;
• Diabetes;
• mental instability;
• Food quality;
• Pneumonia.

If you are worried about third-party symptoms, you need to tell this fact to your doctor.

Vitiligo initial stage photo

• Progressive moment: if the spot increases over a three-month period. This moment may have a slow flow.

• The initial stage of the disease involves the appearance of a spot of a single type. This stage can move into other processes, based on the nature.

• Considering vitiligo (photo), we can distinguish a stationary stage accompanied by one spot. She can be found in children and in adults.

• Re-pigmentation manifests itself in a situation where the spot forms spontaneously. The transition of the disease to this form is extremely rare.

Treating the disease vitiligo, photo, symptoms, treatment It can be noted that there are several options for the treatment of this disease.

Vitiligo treatment medicine

Even with the adoption of high-quality therapy measures, there is a high probability of relapse and progression of the disease. Usually, to eliminate the disease, means of external and internal use are used - tablets, ointments, gels. The group of agents considered below is aimed at suppressing autoimmune phenomena and reactions.

• With a localized type of disease, it is necessary to use ointments of medium and increased activity, their list will be discussed in the appropriate section.
• With the general form of the disease, they are used tablets - prednisolone, triamcinolone, dexamethasone, pulse therapy. When treated with a lamp, patients should take photosensitizing drugs.

Considering the question of how to treat disease, several main directions can be noted. Mostly these are herbal remedies - lamadin, oxoralen, meladinin, psoberan, psoralen. In addition, systemic therapy is carried out, which is aimed at eliminating hormonal disorders, removing patients from a state of depression, as well as suppressing diseases of the nervous system that act as triggers for the disease.

Modern methods of the treatment process

The key to defining a disease is its signs. How can I get rid of from manifestations and causal factors - a specialist should always decide. The medical industry pleases with the speed of its development, therefore progressive treatment is reduced to the use of several groups of drugs and hardware techniques.

• laser therapy nature with the provision of radiation to the affected areas. This method has many similarities with phototherapy and helps with local types of ailments.
• Whitening of the skin contributes to a lower visibility of white spots present on the skin. At the same time, special techniques provide a general leveling of tone, using eloquine, hydroquinone in injections.
• Intervention surgical plan(method of transplantation). If the disease has not come to large skin areas, you can apply for a transplant, but there is a risk of complications - suppuration and rejection.
• Transferring your own human cells from the good zone to the bad zone.
• Application special alcohol extract, which is isolated from the human placenta. This drug is effective in case of localized disease.

UBV therapy

Today this method is used because of the effectiveness and power of action on the affected areas. But PUVA involves a lot of side effects - erythema, a feeling of nausea. In this regard, patients more often prefer ultraviolet irradiation with the narrowest spectral exposure, suggesting a low probability of external and internal manifestations as side effects.

Folic acid

According to studies in which people with this skin disease took this composition, they achieved positive results, which indicates the undeniable role of this vitamin composition.

VITISKIN

MELAGENIN

This remedy is used externally and contributes to the rehabilitation of the pigmentation process on the skin. Substances that make up the drug, allow you to provide the most active reproduction of cells. But there are a number of contraindications for use, which are important to consider.

AMMIFURIN

It is a strong photosensitizing agent used in case of irradiation under the sun. The drug has a release form in the form of tablets and a solution, provides the process of melanin production. There are several diseases-contraindications that are important to take into account.

VITASAN

This remedy has a natural herbal composition and is available as a cream. The composition contains walnut, St. John's wort, calendula, string. There is also oil of walnut, cedar, fir. Contraindications to use include only intolerance to an individual plan.

Vitiligo spot masking

Treating the ailment vitiligo, photo, symptoms, treatment, it can be noted that often patients are concerned about the issue of masking spots. There are several ways.

1. Special cosmetics- the most affordable way to ensure less visibility of spots. Tonal means and creams of the matting action are applied.
2. Auto tan- another "cure" for unattractive white spots that will help hide. Preference should be given to salon procedures.
3. Green walnut skin will remove the sharpness of the contrast between the areas and even out the skin tone. The advantage is that there are no marks on clothing upon application.

When leaving, it is important to follow the basic rules for monitoring the condition of the skin.

Vitiligo treatment ointment

If a disease started, then remove spots topical ointments will help.

• hydrocortisone butyrate, esperon- for the treatment of a localized form of the disease. The duration of the course of treatment is 3 months or more.
• If there is no effect, a remedy with a wider activity is used - elokom, sinalar, beloderm. The duration is from 1 to 4 months. But you can get rid of vitiligo.

Vitiligo treatment with folk remedies at home

1. The disease is cured red pepper tincture, during the process, an infusion purchased in pharmacies is taken, used to lubricate the affected areas three times a day for a period of 5 minutes. The course continues until the skin condition improves.
2. Fig milk- another way to overcome the disease. Fig leaf milk is used, which can restore skin pigmentation. Leaves should be crushed well before use.

Vitiligo treatment before and after photos

Treatment of the disease involves the use of a large number of methods that are important to take into account. Tablets, creams, gels, ointments, hardware techniques and proven folk recipes are used. which can be seen in the article, goes away quickly.

Do they take in the army with vitiligo

There is no definite answer: people with complex illnesses do not serve in the army, while those suffering from localized disorders can get a deferment, then recover and go to the service.

We reviewed vitiligo, photos, symptoms, treatment with pills and folk remedies. Have you tried treatment? Leave feedback on the forum about vitiligo

The development of vitiligo is preceded by such factors:

Vitiligo is not a congenital pathology, it is a disease that begins to manifest itself under a number of external and (or) internal factors:

1. Failures in the work of immunity, when tissue metabolism is disturbed and the body mistakenly begins to destroy its cells, mistaking them for hostile ones.

2. Heredity. Studies by American scientists have revealed a common genetic defect in several generations of families with cases of vitiligo.

Their discovery also confirms that dark-eyed people are much more likely to develop the disease than people with light-colored irises (blue, grey, green).

3. Hormonal disorders. Malfunctions in the body and metabolic pathologies cause achromia due to a surge or decrease in vital substances.

4. Injuries. Extensive wounds, bruises, frostbite and burns can provoke the death of the epidermis, as a result, the affected area loses its normal functions (thermoregulation and protection) and changes color.

5. Diseases of the liver and digestive tract. Congestion and slow absorption of nutrients adversely affect the condition of the skin and contribute to the development of its diseases.

6. Exposure to chemicals (drugs, cosmetics, hygiene products, perfumes, household chemicals). In these cases, vitiligo develops in response to irritants and their harmful (or unsuitable for the skin) constituents.

Provoking factors for the manifestation of achromia include:

• physical injury;
• infectious and (or) chronic diseases;
• psycho-emotional shocks and severe stress.

The disease has a complex development mechanism, so its causes and treatment are strictly within the competence of doctors (dermatologists, immunologists, endocrinologists, etc.).

It is possible to talk about the causes of vitiligo only approximately, at the level of assumptions that are more or less confirmed. Changes in the skin come from a decrease in the rate of enzymatic reactions that determine the production of melanin.

Melanogenesis is disturbed, the activity of tyrosinane is reduced. There is a negative DOPA reaction.

At the same time, the norm in the number of melanocytes is maintained.

vitiligo photo in a child (a violation of the color of the eyelashes in the spot area is visible)

Dermatologists around the world are trying to understand the cause of this disease. Particular cases that lead to this process have been studied, but it has not yet been possible to prove it rigorously and “sort it all out”.

It is known for certain that there is a genetic autosomal recessive factor and vitiligo can be inherited because a defect in tyrosinase is inherited. This is proven by the fact that people with gray or blue eyes are less likely to be affected by vitiligo than brown-eyed people.

To date, the causes of vitiligo have not been reliably established, which means that there is no need to talk about effective and complete treatment. Basically, the treatment method includes photochemotherapy, as well as vitamin E intake and acupuncture methods in complex therapy.

Classification

Clinicians distinguish several varieties of the disease, depending on the color of the spots formed, as well as their prevalence throughout the body.

By prevalence:

• localized form. It is divided into three subspecies: segmental location (spots are localized only on one half of the body), focal (only a couple of depigmented areas are observed), mucous (spots appear only on mucous membranes);
• universal form. In this case, the pigment loses up to 80% of the entire surface of the skin;
• generalized form. It has three subspecies: vulgar location (symmetrical manifestation of areas of depigmentation), acrocifal (on the skin of the limbs and face), mixed.

According to the color of the depigmented areas:

• blue. The depigmented area of ​​the skin acquires a blue tint;
• inflamed. Along the edges of the spot, you can notice the appearance of an inflamed border;
• tricolor. In this case, the depigmented area limits the transition zone, which has a shade slightly lighter than healthy skin;
• four-color. The above three colors are complemented by a zone that has more intense pigmentation than healthy skin.

Depending on the nature of the spots, the disease is divided into two types: type A and type B.

Type A includes the following forms:

• vulgar - present on 2 or more parts of the body;
• mixed - combines different forms;
• acrofascial - pathology is present only on the hands or feet;
• universal - more than 80% of the body surface is affected.

Type B includes:

• focal - appears only on one side of the body, does not progress further;
• mucosa - only mucous membranes (genitals, oral cavity) are affected;
• zosteriform - characterized by small clusters of foci in one place;
• segmental - associated with damage to the spinal cord and nerve endings.

Read more about the symptoms and treatment of alopecia in children here.

The disease is classified according to the prevalence of the process of formation of spots and their color. Depending on the location of the lesions, the disease can be of the following forms:

• localized, which in turn can be focal (one spot is present in one area), segmental (lesions are located along the course of the nerve), mucous (spots affect the mucous membranes);
• generalized, which is acrofascial (failure in the synthesis of melanin occurs only on the distal parts of the feet, hands and face), vulgar (depigmented areas are scattered throughout the body), mixed;
• universal form - depigmentation of the skin throughout the body.

Depending on the color of the spot, the following forms of vitiligo are distinguished:

• tricolor - depigmented area has one transition zone;
• four-color - two transition zones within one lesion;
• inflamed - an inflamed contour forms around the lesion;
• blue - lesions acquire a bluish tint.

Vitiligo: photo initial stage

Clinicians distinguish several stages in the progression of such a disease:

To understand what vitiligo looks like, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the photo in the initial stage and not only.

the initial stage of vitiligo photo - the first spot

The initial stage of vitiligo, the first signs

The beginning of the development of the disease proceeds imperceptibly. Sometimes there is tingling, slight itching, possibly primary erythema.

Vitiligo disease manifests itself in the form of well-defined spots with smooth or scalloped edges from white to milky white. In addition to color, other violations of the skin are not observed.

In the future, the spots grow and merge. The face, neck, arms and legs, folds of the external genitalia and anus are most often affected.

If there is hair in the lesion, then they also undergo a process of depigmentation.

Depending on the distribution of depigmentation, vitiligo is classified as follows:

• general pattern (spots evenly distributed over the body);
• local pattern (spots in the form of one or more limited zones);
• segmental pattern (separate spots located on one side of the body);
• total stage (damage to almost all skin integuments).

However, depigmentation is not the only sign of vitiligo. In some cases, the disease is accompanied by irritation and inflammation of the skin.

Sometimes the disease is combined with other skin diseases: psoriasis, lichen planus, superficial scleroderma, alopecia, and others. In addition, in patients suffering from vitiligo, there is a decrease in the antitoxic function of the liver, the development of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Symptoms

The main symptom is the appearance of characteristic spots on the skin. This process takes a long period of time. At the initial stage, the spots have a pink tint, then they become milky.

In children, spots are oval or rounded. As the child grows and develops, they change their shape and color.

Vitiligo in children - photo:

In exposed areas of the body under the influence of sunlight, other symptoms appear:

• peeling of the skin;
• redness;
• compaction of spots;
• local increase in body temperature;
• lightening spots on the background of tanned skin;
• the appearance of cracks.

The rest of the disease is asymptomatic, that is, the patient does not feel unwell or other painful symptoms.

The onset of the disease most often occurs imperceptibly (rarely, the appearance of depigmentation is preceded by a slight itching or slight reddening of the skin).

The main symptoms of vitiligo include the appearance of small white spots on the skin that have clearly defined (torn or even) edges. There are no signs of atrophy or lichen in the lesions.

Diagnostics

In addition to the presence of characteristic spots on the skin that form with vitiligo in children and adults, diagnosis is also based on laboratory tests. To accurately confirm the preliminary diagnosis, the patient is sent for the following tests:

Differential diagnosis is carried out with the following pathologies:

• lichen of three types - white, simple and multi-colored;
• secondary leukoderma, which began to progress against the background of lupus, dermatitis, syphilis.

If noticeable depigmented spots are found on the body, it is necessary to contact a dermatologist for an examination. The examination consists of determining the nature of the violation of skin pigmentation using a special lamp and taking material for laboratory tests.

These manipulations will help to exclude other skin diseases.

With a confirmed diagnosis, various types of drugs are used:

1. Glucocorticoids. You need to start using the least concentrated topical preparations: Fluorocort, Hydrocortisone, Triacort. If the result does not improve after 3 months of therapy, then the dosage is adjusted - drugs with a higher amount of active ingredient are prescribed: Beloderm, Dermovate, Elok. In the generalized form, drugs of this group are used in tablet form, but in combination with pulse therapy to avoid the risk of developing side effects in the form of diabetes mellitus. For oral administration, Prednisolone, Dexamethasone, Methylprednisolone are prescribed.
2. Photocoumarins in combination with an ultraviolet lamp. Herbal remedies increase the sensitivity of melanocytes to UV radiation: Beroxan, Psoberan, Puvalen, Methoxalen.
3. Systemic therapy for concomitant diseases. Depending on the current situation and existing pathologies, antidepressants, sedatives (for depression and nervous disorders), vitamin and mineral complexes, immunomodulators and antioxidants may be prescribed as an additional treatment.

Innovative problem solving methods:

1. Melanocyte transplantation - autotransplantation of healthy skin cells to a discolored area. Used on small areas.
2. Melagenin Plus is an alcoholic preparation based on the human placenta.
3. Laser therapy - vitiligo spots are affected by a laser beam of various lengths. The technique will be effective if the pathology develops for less than 5 years and with segmental, vulgar and focal forms of leukoderma.
4. Cosmetic skin whitening - the introduction of brightening injections to even out the tone of the skin surface.

New methods of combating vitiligo are being developed, in particular, a vaccine against the disease is being invented.

In order to make this diagnosis, you need to contact a dermatologist. He, on the basis of an examination and some laboratory tests, will be able to diagnose the presence of vitiligo in a person.

Usually depigmented areas have such a characteristic appearance that it seems that the diagnosis is quite simple. However, there are a number of similar pathologies: leprosy, syphilitic leukoderma, versicolor versicolor. They can only be distinguished from vitiligo by a qualified specialist.

Diagnosis is usually not difficult, since white pigment spots on the skin are considered characteristic signs of this disease. Diagnosis is carried out by a dermatologist who must be able to distinguish vitiligo from leukoderma (a secondary symptom of syphilis), leprosy (leprosy), lichen multi-colored, albinism and depigmented areas of the skin after papules, pustules or blisters.

Modern medicine cannot offer one universal way to treat vitiligo, but there are methods that will help to significantly improve the appearance of the skin, namely:

• PUVA therapy - treatment of affected areas with ultraviolet light;
• corticosteroid therapy (creams, ointments, tablets);
• application of a helium-neon laser;
• diet therapy;
• phytotherapy;
• vitamin therapy;
• folk remedies;
• surgical method (transplantation of micro-sections of healthy skin into lesions).

How to cure

Modern therapy of the disease includes conservative and surgical techniques.

The main directions in the treatment of vitiligo are:

1. reception or local application of drugs based on glucocorticosteroids (hydrocortisone, prednisolone);
2. laser or phototherapy;
3. restorative treatment, correction of diet and lifestyle.

The latest treatments for vitiligo include:

1. skin whitening cosmetic procedures using special preparations (Eloquin, Monobenzone and Hydroquinone), which allow you to visually even out skin color;
2. skin autograft;
3. the introduction of own pigment cells from a healthy area to the patient;
4. the drug Melagenin plus, the use of this solution based on the placenta extract makes it possible to compensate for the deficiency of melanin in problem skin. Reviews of cured patients confirm a lasting effect and the absence of remissions (return of symptoms of the disease).

All innovative methods are used only after consultation with a doctor; therapy during pregnancy and lactation is not carried out.

Traditional medicine methods offer various means to combat vitiligo:

1. Infusion for oral administration. A similar medicine is being prepared from herbs that have the ability to improve metabolic processes in tissues (St. John's wort, thyme, calendula, duckweed, etc.).

2. Ointment compresses. In order to get a homemade ointment for vitiligo, extract from medicinal herbs is added to olive or sea buckthorn oil. Compresses are prepared from wine vinegar or vodka with the addition of honey.

3. Baths. These procedures can be carried out using infusions and decoctions of medicinal plants, with the addition of sea salt.4. Mud. Mud wraps rich in trace elements improve blood circulation and skin nutrition.

All methods of alternative treatment are used only after consultation with a doctor!

Currently, in medicine, there are a number of methods for curing vitiligo. Forever or for a while - only practice can show.

There are cases of complete recovery or stop the development of the disease. In any case, to achieve a lasting effect, it is necessary to unite the efforts of doctors and patients.

The disease is very difficult to treat. Complex therapy is intended, basically, only to suspend the pathological process. Removing depigmented areas is a very difficult task.

First you need to identify the cause of the development of the disease and treat it. Usually this is a hidden or overt pathology of the liver and / or gallbladder, bile ducts. Then the therapy will include such drugs as "Essentiale", "Gepabene", "Cholagogum".

In case of dysfunction of the thyroid gland, diagnostics are carried out and appropriate treatment is prescribed (with increased function - "Mercazolil" or other drugs, with reduced function - hormone replacement therapy).

There is no ideal method of treatment, for each organism a different method works. Very rare cases where the spots simply disappeared over time. Treatment of vitiligo is a long process that requires constant monitoring, otherwise you can return to the initial stage of the disease. It is not always possible to completely get rid of the disease, you can stop the spread of spots and make them smaller. The most effective options for how to cure vitiligo:

• the most important thing is to resume the patient's normal metabolism, for this various drugs are used that improve the metabolic process. Preparations containing melanin pigment are prescribed;
• the affected areas are treated with alcohol;
• most effectively, together with the procedures, carry out ultraviolet irradiation of the affected tissues, before that they are treated with a special preparation;
• PUVA therapy with the help of ultraviolet light introduces various drugs, hormones and medicines under the skin. They provide fast local treatment;
• if local treatment is used, it is impossible to lubricate the eye area and eyelids with special solutions.

Children under the age of 5 years are more difficult to treat, most drugs are contraindicated for them. People with weak immunity and complex chronic diseases, as well as old age, most drugs can harm.

See photos before and after treatment.

Treatment of vitiligo with folk methods is quite possible, tinctures and creams on a natural basis are used. The following methods are most effective, although they do not guarantee 100% results:

• St. John's wort oil. St. John's wort is dried, then it needs to be crushed and put in a jar, pour vegetable-based oil. The remedy should be infused for at least two weeks. Such a tincture has a weak effect due to its low concentration, but it is still worth a try;
• highly concentrated St. John's wort oil. Only St. John's wort flowers are taken, without stem and foliage. The jar is filled with them tightly and to the top, leaving a couple of centimeters to close the lid. Next, oil is poured, you can use not only sunflower oil, but also, for example, sea buckthorn. The mixture should be infused in the sun or in a warm place for two weeks. The tincture gives a more significant effect due to its high concentration;
• black cumin oil. This oil can be rubbed as a ready-made tincture, it has good properties, it is useful not only for the skin, but also relieves fatigue. Black cumin oil can be found in pharmacies or cosmetic stores;
• marsh duckweed tincture. Swamp duckweed has a number of healing properties, it contains iodine and bromine salt, which have a positive effect on the body. To prepare such a tincture, you need to use the duckweed itself and vodka. First, the duckweed is washed under the tap and placed in a jar. For one teaspoon of duckweed, you need to take 50 gr. vodka, you can use alcohol, but a little diluted. After pouring, the tincture stands for a week in a dark place. Then the product must be filtered through cheesecloth. No more than 20 drops of tincture are used per glass of water and it is used every day;
• black pepper. Ground black pepper has not only taste, but also healing properties. Scientists have proven that pepper can be used to treat vitiligo, thanks to piperine, which is part of it, it has a positive effect on the skin. Ground pepper is applied to damaged dry skin and rubbed a little. After 20 minutes of being on the skin, it can be washed off;
• ointment for vitiligo from sulsen. You can find sulsen ointment in a pharmacy or cosmetic store, it is used as an alternative and sulsen paste. It is best to buy a 2% ointment, the agent is applied to problem areas for half an hour, after which it is carefully wiped off;
• ground sesame. Sesame works well on the skin, but you need to take it inside. Sesame seeds are ground through a blender or coffee grinder, in the morning and evening you need to eat a teaspoon of ground sesame powder. The effect will become noticeable when yellow shades appear on the spots. Within a month, vitiligo can be completely cured, after which it is worth stopping the use of sesame seeds;
• onion and garlic. Effective in use against vitiligo spots are garlic and onions, which are cut into two parts and rub the spots with them for five minutes, several times a day. You need to alternate onions and garlic, one day rub one, the other the other.

You can use several methods at once, the main thing is to find out what works best and apply them only after consulting a doctor.

Their reviews on the treatment of vitiligo in various medical forums were left by people who have undergone treatment, and those who have just started. Such a practice is very important: those who have been fighting the disease for years tell what helped them most effectively, and what is just a waste of time.

Not so long ago, it is very informative and useful for those who have become ill to read such reviews. If we talk about such a disease as vitiligo, the history of recovery of each is very important for people who are just starting to deal with the disease.

Getting rid of the foci of vitiligo is not easy, since this pathology has not been fully studied. Today, PUVA therapy can be considered the most effective way to combat discoloration of skin areas: age spots on the patient's body are covered with special preparations, and then irradiated with ultraviolet light.

Under the influence of UV radiation, melanin begins to form on the affected areas of the skin, as a result of which the foci of the disease become less noticeable.

This technique is not safe, and recently it has been somewhat modified: the drug itself is exposed to ultraviolet radiation, which is then applied to pigmented areas.

Such treatment is considered more gentle and at the same time no less effective.

In addition to PUVA therapy, white spots on the hands and other parts of the body can be treated using other methods. If the causes of vitiligo are stress and nervous tension, to pacify the disease, you should take soothing baths with the addition of valerian and pine needles twice a week (25 ml of valerian alcohol tincture and 2-3 tablespoons of pine needles extract should be taken for 1 full bath).

In patients with vitiligo, there is a shortage of T-lymphocytes in the body. To increase their number, you should drink echinacea tincture, vitamins C and B6.

And here is a description of the treatment of the disease according to the Indian method: white spots on the skin of the hands can be made not so noticeable if for 3 months twice a day the problem areas are treated with a solution of 4% salicylic acid, and then clobetasol ointment is applied to them.

With prolonged use, the ointment can cause a change in skin pigmentation, which is necessary to get rid of vitiligo. However, you should be careful, as this method has many side effects, including allergic reactions and skin atrophy.

In order for vitiligo treatment to be effective, it is necessary to constantly deal with the condition of your skin.

Specialists prescribe groups of drugs responsible for improving metabolic processes. They should not only have a beneficial effect on the internal functioning of the body, but also directly on the exchange of melanin and stimulate its production.

Therefore, it is advisable to use all kinds of alcohol solutions, which should be used to treat the affected areas of the skin.

Basically, the treatment of vitiligo comes down to taking drugs in the form of tablets, as well as ointments and solutions that increase the sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet rays.

The ointment is rubbed into those areas of the skin that have lost pigment. The most effective drugs in this sense are ammifurin, psoberan, beroxan, psoralen and meladinin.

Treatment for vitiligo aims to help the body produce melanin on its own.

It is also used for the treatment of ultraviolet irradiation and photochemotherapy, however, with these methods, one course of treatment is not enough, several courses of treatment are needed with minimal pauses between them.

Since the symptoms of vitiligo are observed in young people more often, in recent years, treatment with photosensitizing agents, as well as laser irradiation, has been practiced.

It is much more effective than photochemotherapy, and also heals faster and does not give side effects. The therapy also includes vitamin C, as well as copper, since with vitiligo the patient has a shortage of these components.

In the West, vitiligo is treated surgically - skin grafting from donor sites. This method is painless and fast, but it is expensive.

The complex of treatment also includes immunomodulatory drugs, such as immunal, activin or echinacea tincture. In addition, folk methods for the treatment of vitiligo are widespread, and it is folk methods that turn out to be the most effective in a number of cases.

Here are some of the most famous recipes used by the people for the treatment of vitiligo.

Getting rid of vitiligo is difficult. There are cases of spontaneous healing, but this is very rare, especially with extensive spots. A visit to a dermatologist is required. Modern medicine has various means, including ultraviolet radiation with a special wavelength, laser therapy.

In special cases, if the patient persists, options for bleaching the adjacent skin can even be used to even out the tone and smooth out the shade transitions. Even surgical methods of skin transplantation (melanotransplantation) are used. But all these methods are determined by the doctor.

How to treat vitiligo at home?

1) At home, wiping the skin with a weak solution of copper sulfate can be used, since the tyrosinase enzyme is activated by copper salts.

2) To suppress autoimmune inflammation in the skin, various ointments containing corticosteroid hormones are used. But this can only be used in the progression stage, and as directed by a doctor. After all, even local use of hormones can lead to systemic effects.

• The most commonly used are "Elocom", "Dermovate", "Beloderm".

3) In some cases, Elidel, Protopic help with vitiligo. They are new anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce the cellular response of T-lymphocytes, inhibit the synthesis of interleukins - inflammatory mediators, as well as other components of inflammation.

In conclusion, it should be noted that in the event of the appearance of vitiligo, you should immediately go to a dermatologist. In the event that the diagnosis is confirmed, then you need to fully undergo an examination, and you need to start with a doctor - an endocrinologist and a rheumatologist, then check the functioning of the liver and gastrointestinal tract.

If any pathology is found and treated in a timely manner, there is a great chance that vitiligo will be cured in the bud.

How to treat vitiligo in children? Therapy of the disease is aimed at the normalization of metabolic processes in the body and the return of normal skin color.

For this, medicines, physio- and other procedures, folk remedies are used. Usually, therapy is complex, that is, it includes all methods at the same time, which increases the effectiveness of treatment.

Medicines

Treatment with medicines involves the use of the following types of medicines:

• corticosteroids (Hydrocortisone, Dexamethasone, Alclomethasone, Fluocinolone, Prednisolone);
• hormonal and photosensitizing drugs (Methoxalen, Meladinin, Beroxan, Lamadin);
• immunomodulators (Interferon, Decaris, Likopid, Arbidol);
• antioxidants (Panangin, Glutargin, Actovegin);
• vitamin and mineral complexes.

You can reduce the manifestations of pigmentation with the help of traditional medicine recipes. White spots on the skin can be removed with redcurrant juice: you need to wipe the foci of vitiligo in the morning and evening with a cotton swab soaked in the juice.

Instead of juice, you can use the red currant itself: the slurry from it is applied directly to the spots for a quarter of an hour, and then washed off with water. If the patient's skin is prone to peeling, then after the procedure, a thin layer of fatty sour cream should be applied to it and washed off with warm water after 10 minutes.

Lemon juice has proven itself well in the treatment of local manifestations of vitiligo. It is necessary to mix 1 part of freshly squeezed juice with 2 parts of kombucha infusion and wipe the affected areas of the body with the resulting solution until the spots become less noticeable.

Based on lemon juice, you can prepare another remedy for treating age spots: add 2 tablespoons of juice to beaten egg white, put the mixture on low heat and stir until it thickens.

Cool the lemon-egg mass and add 4 drops of lavender or rosemary essential oil to it. Apply the product on white spots until a tangible result is obtained.

You can get rid of skin pigmentation with the help of celandine: tincture of this plant is recommended to regularly wipe problem areas. If vitiligo is present only on the hands, you can make a bath for them 2-3 times a week with the addition of celandine infusion.

It is believed that to make white spots less noticeable, you can use fresh cabbage juice, sour milk or parsley. Any traditional medicine for vitiligo is effective only in the initial stages of the disease or in combination with the main treatment.

In the case when the disease progresses greatly, the patient must abandon self-medication and consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Prevention and forecasts

To prevent the disease, you should follow the recommendations of specialists:

• adhere to a balanced diet;
• take care of dental health;
• strengthen immunity;
• treat any infectious diseases in time;
• avoid stress and psychological overstrain;
• get rid of worms in children;
• timely seek medical attention.

Vitiligo is still a mystery among doctors. Prevention is difficult, but treatment is even more difficult.

At the first symptoms, it is better to immediately take the child to the doctor and start therapy.

In the early stages, the symptoms of the disease can be eliminated in a short time with the help of normalization of metabolism and physiotherapy. At later stages, this process may be irreversible.

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