What is generalized vitiligo?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on May 18, 2025
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Generalized vitiligo, as opposed to localized vitiligo, generally covers larger areas and can appear on various parts of the body, while localized vitiligo typically occurs in only one area, such as the palms or around the mouth. Once this disease is discovered, especially generalized vitiligo, it must be treated properly; otherwise, the affected area can increase, making treatment more difficult later on. Treatment should be sought at a reputable hospital's dermatology department, where a combination of oral medication, topical medication, and 308 laser therapy can be effective. During treatment, it's important to exercise to strengthen the immune system, avoid foods rich in vitamin C, and consume more dark-colored foods, which can help in the production of melanin.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can vitiligo develop into skin cancer?

Vitiligo is a condition where melanin is lost from the epidermis, leading to the formation of white patches on the skin surface; this condition is not related to the skin itself. Vitiligo generally progresses with an increase in the area and whiteness of the patches, or an increase in the number of patches on the body, but it does not develop into skin cancer. Once diagnosed with vitiligo, it is essential to seek standard treatment at the dermatology department of a formal hospital, because the treatment period is relatively long, requires long-term medication, and involves treatment with 308-nm excimer laser. During treatment, it is important to exercise to boost immunity and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Eating more black-colored foods and limiting the intake of foods rich in Vitamin C is advisable. Even after complete recovery, continuing medication for a while to consolidate the treatment is recommended.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Is there a difference between white patches and vitiligo?

White patches and vitiligo have clear distinctions. White patches primarily refer to localized hypopigmentation on the skin, a type of macule where pigment loss occurs due to a reduction in function or number of melanocytes. White patches can appear on the skin due to various reasons or diseases, including post-inflammatory hypopigmentation, tinea versicolor, and pityriasis alba. Vitiligo, on the other hand, usually refers to a specific skin condition. The causes of vitiligo are multiple and can be related to psychological factors, autoimmune dysfunction, leading to the destruction and reduction in melanocytes. The appearance of white patches in localized skin areas is called vitiligo, and its typical lesion is also a localized white patch, which is a type of white patch. Therefore, diseases causing white patches could potentially include vitiligo or other conditions. Vitiligo is just one possible cause of white patches.

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

People with vitiligo can eat peaches. Peaches are rich in vitamins and also contain a substantial amount of iron. In traditional Chinese medicine, peaches are said to nourish yin, generate fluids, moisturize the intestines, and facilitate bowel movements. They are considered a good fruit symbolizing fortune, prosperity, and longevity. Although long-term excessive intake of vitamin C is one of the triggers for vitiligo, vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant. It helps the body eliminate free radicals, which, when in excess, can damage our body's melanocytes. Therefore, appropriately consuming fruits that contain vitamin C, such as peaches, does not affect vitiligo.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can late-stage vitiligo be life-threatening?

Generally speaking clinically, vitiligo does not have a concept of a late stage, but if the disease has been present for a long time and covers a large area, treatment can be troublesome. Vitiligo poses no harm to life and health; even if the affected area is large, it does not threaten life, but treatment can be troublesome, requiring long-term commitment and substantial costs. Once detected, it is best to seek formal treatment at a dermatology department of a standard hospital. Generally, doctors will formulate a treatment plan based on the individual's condition. The combination of oral medication, topical medication, and 308 laser therapy is currently the most effective method for treating vitiligo. During the treatment period, it is also important to strengthen physical exercise to enhance immunity, helping to prevent the complete loss of melanin after it is deposited.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Is the appearance of white spots on the back vitiligo?

White patches on the back are not necessarily vitiligo; they could also be tinea versicolor. Tinea versicolor is caused by a fungal infection, generally contagious, and may gradually increase in number after the appearance of one. Additionally, these patches are somewhat blurry in color, not the porcelain white typically seen with vitiligo. If it is vitiligo, the situation is more complicated, and it is necessary to seek formal treatment at a dermatology department of a standard hospital. In the current situation, it is advisable to visit a dermatology department in a formal hospital and use a Wood's lamp or dermatoscope for differential diagnosis to definitively determine if the condition is vitiligo. If it is tinea versicolor, applying antifungal cream alone can completely cure it. If it is vitiligo, a comprehensive treatment is required, involving oral and topical medications, along with 308-nm excimer laser therapy.