Vitiligo symptoms

Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
Updated on September 12, 2024
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Vitiligo is a common skin depigmentation disorder, often occurring in adolescents. It is difficult to detect in its early stages and presents no distinct symptoms. Initially, vitiligo manifests as small white spots, which vary in size and shape. These spots are pale white, making them distinctly different from the surrounding skin color, with clear boundaries and noticeable pigment deposition around them. Over time, these small white spots may change and gradually spread to the surrounding areas, causing the area of depigmentation to increase, eventually forming larger patches.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Does vitiligo spread through contagion?

Vitiligo is not contagious, and it will not be transmitted to others through contact once it appears. However, this disease does tend to have a genetic predisposition. The main factors contributing to vitiligo include decreased immunity, a deficiency of copper in the body, localized trauma, or genetic heredity. There are also some reasons that cannot be fully identified through medical examination. After vitiligo appears, its progression varies from person to person. Some patients experience rapid development, with the affected area expanding significantly within a few months, while others see slower progression. Generally, if the spread is quick, it is necessary to seek routine treatment promptly. If the affected area is small and the progression is very slow, it might be reasonable to observe for a while to monitor the development of the patches before deciding on the treatment approach. In any case, it is crucial to take vitiligo seriously upon its onset, continuously observe its progression, consult a doctor to assess the severity of the condition, and receive appropriate treatment.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Is a white patch on the face vitiligo?

White patches on the face are common, with the most typical being pityriasis alba or pityriasis versicolor. These conditions are generally related to a lack of vitamins, trace elements, or fungal infections on the skin's surface. These types of patches are usually vague, with unclear boundaries and may also have some fine scales on them. The second type of white patch is vitiligo, which is usually much whiter. When examined under a Wood's lamp, they appear bright white and have irregular edges, with a tendency for the patches to expand over time. Another type of white patch is the nevus depigmentosus, which is congenital and present from birth. These patches generally do not expand and are not particularly white. If there is any uncertainty, it is best to consult a dermatologist at a reputable hospital and have it confirmed with a Wood’s lamp or a dermatoscope.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can patients with vitiligo use mobile phones?

Generally speaking, playing with mobile phones does not affect patients with vitiligo, but it is important not to stay up late while using them. If staying up late regularly leads to a decreased immune function, it can worsen the symptoms of vitiligo. Vitiligo is mainly associated with reduced immunity, genetic heritage, a lack of copper in the body, or local trauma. Once detected, it is crucial to seek formal treatment in the dermatology department of a reputable hospital. Oral medication combined with topical drugs, along with the 308 laser treatment, yields better results. Consuming more black-colored foods is recommended, while it is best to avoid consuming too much food rich in vitamin C. If long-term treatment is ineffective, melanin transplantation can also be considered. It is essential to undergo formal treatment; otherwise, the affected area may continue to expand, and the difficulty of treatment will also increase.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Is melanocyte transplantation for vitiligo painful?

Vitiligo melanocyte transplantation is essentially painless. It mainly involves extracting small blisters from the abdomen using a cellular base, then clearing the blister fluid and using the blister's epidermis to cover the affected vitiligo areas. These vitiligo areas are first abraded with a machine until slight bleeding occurs, allowing the epidermis to be covered. There is essentially no pain. Melanocyte transplantation for vitiligo is generally suitable for patients in a stable phase, meaning the vitiligo has not changed for at least six months. It is recommended that during treatment, patients should combine oral medication with topical drugs and eat more black foods. Foods rich in vitamin C should be consumed in moderation.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Can people with vitiligo eat beef?

People with vitiligo can eat beef. Beef is delicious and is a high-protein, low-fat quality meat, ranking as the second largest meat product consumed in China. Patients with vitiligo should eat more foods rich in tyrosine or minerals such as copper and iron, including beef, as well as rabbit meat, pork, animal liver, chicken eggs, duck eggs, milk, and some shellfish, such as snails, etc.