Vitiligo Treatment
at Mosaic Dermatology in West Fargo
Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes loss of skin pigment, leading to white patches on various parts of the body. This occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. Vitiligo can develop in localized areas or become more widespread, affecting the face, hands, arms, legs, and other sun-exposed areas. While there is no cure, treatments are available to help restore skin color, slow progression, and improve overall skin appearance. At Mosaic Dermatology, we offer advanced therapies to help manage vitiligo and enhance skin tone.
What Is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a non-contagious skin disorder that results in loss of pigment due to the destruction of melanocytes. It can appear at any age and may progress over time, affecting small patches or large areas of the skin. While the exact cause is unknown, genetics and immune system dysfunction play a significant role in its development.
Causes and Risk Factors for Vitiligo
Vitiligo occurs due to a combination of genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors, including:
- Autoimmune response: The immune system mistakenly targets melanocytes.
- Genetic predisposition: Family history of vitiligo or other autoimmune conditions.
- Skin trauma or stress: Injury, sunburn, or emotional stress may trigger vitiligo.
- Hormonal changes: May appear or worsen during puberty, pregnancy, or after major hormonal shifts.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals may contribute to depigmentation.
Types of Vitiligo
Vitiligo presents in different patterns, including:
- Generalized vitiligo: The most common form, with widespread depigmentation.
- Segmental vitiligo: Affects one side or area of the body and often develops earlier in life.
- Focal vitiligo: Limited to a few small spots in one area.
- Acrofacial vitiligo: Affects the hands, feet, and face.
- Universal vitiligo: A rare form that causes loss of pigment over most of the body.
Symptoms of Vitiligo
Vitiligo presents in different patterns, including:
- Generalized vitiligo: The most common form, with widespread depigmentation.
- Segmental vitiligo: Affects one side or area of the body and often develops earlier in life.
- Focal vitiligo: Limited to a few small spots in one area.
- Acrofacial vitiligo: Affects the hands, feet, and face.
- Universal vitiligo: A rare form that causes loss of pigment over most of the body.
Vitiligo Treatment Options
At Mosaic Dermatology, we offer customized treatment plans to help manage vitiligo and reduce depigmentation.
Topical Treatments
- Corticosteroid creams: Can help repigment small areas by reducing inflammation.
- Calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus): Used for sensitive areas like the face and neck.
Oral & Systemic Treatments
- Oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressants: May be used for rapidly spreading vitiligo.
- JAK inhibitors: Emerging treatments targeting immune pathways involved in vitiligo.
Referral for Phototherapy & Light Therapy
- Narrowband UVB therapy: Stimulates melanocytes to promote repigmentation.
- Excimer laser therapy: Targets specific areas of depigmentation.
Referral for Surgical Treatments (For Stable Vitiligo)
- Melanocyte transplantation: Transferring healthy pigment cells to affected areas.
- Skin grafting: Using pigmented skin from other areas to restore color.
Managing and Preventing Vitiligo Progression
- Avoid skin trauma and sunburns, which can worsen vitiligo.
- Use sunscreen daily to protect depigmented areas.
- Monitor for new patches and seek early treatment.
- Manage stress, which can trigger or exacerbate vitiligo.
When to See a Dermatologist
Professional evaluation is recommended if:
- White patches appear and continue spreading.
- Vitiligo affects self-confidence or emotional well-being.
- Over-the-counter treatments fail to improve skin tone.
- You experience associated autoimmune symptoms.
Expert Vitiligo Care in West Fargo
At Mosaic Dermatology, we are dedicated to helping patients manage vitiligo with advanced treatments and personalized care. If you are experiencing pigment loss or new white patches, schedule an appointment today for expert diagnosis and treatment options tailored to your needs.