Vitiligo is a condition of the skin where loss of pigment results in white patches appearing on different parts of the body.
 

The cause of vitiligo is not known, but doctors and researchers have several different theories. There is strong evidence that people with vitiligo inherit a group of three genes that make them susceptible to depigmentation. The most widely accepted view is that the depigmentation occurs because vitiligo is an autoimmune disease—a disease in which a person’s immune system reacts against the body’s own organs or tissues. As such, people’s bodies produce proteins called cytokines that alter their pigment-producing cells and cause these cells to die. Another theory is that melanocytes destroy themselves. Finally, some people have reported that a single event such as sunburn or emotional distress triggered vitiligo; however, these events have not been scientifically proven as causes of vitiligo.
 

Vitiligo Symptoms
Sudden or gradual appearance of flat areas of normal-feeling skin with complete pigment loss.

Exams and Tests
Examination is usually sufficient to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be needed to rule out other causes of pigment loss. Your doctor may also perform blood tests to check the levels of thyroid or other hormones, and vitamin B12 levels.

Vitiligo Treatment
Vitiligo is difficult to treat. Early treatment options include the following:
Exposure to intense ultraviolet light, such as narrow-band UVB therapy
Oral medications, such as trimethylpsoralen (Trisoralen)
Topical (on the skin) medications
Repigmenting agents such as methoxsalen (Oxsoralen)
Immunosuppressants such as pimecrolimus (Elidel) and tacrolimus (Protopic)
Corticosteroid creams

Skin may be grafted or removed from normal areas and placed into areas of pigment loss. In the future, skin pigment cells may be grown in the laboratory and used to treat areas of vitiligo.
Several manufacturers produce cover-up makeup or skin dyes to mask vitiligo. Ask your health care provider for the names of these companies.

In extreme cases when Vitiligo affects most of the body, the remaining pigmented skin may be de-pigmented. This is a permanent change and is a last resort.

It is important to remember that skin without pigment is extremely susceptible to the sun's damaging effects. Be sure to apply a high-SPF sunblock and use appropriate safeguards against sun exposure.