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FAQ
Halo nevi (also known as Sutton's nevi) are characterized by a mole that's surrounded by a ring of depigmented or lighter skin. While both halo nevi and vitiligo involve the destruction of melanocytes (the cells that produce skin pigment), they are separate conditions.
However, there has been observed a potential association between halo nevi and vitiligo. Several studies suggest that people with halo nevi may have a higher incidence of vitiligo than the general population. This association is believed to be due to the shared autoimmune response that targets melanocytes.
That being said, the presence of a halo nevus doesn't necessarily mean that someone will develop vitiligo. Many people with halo nevi do not develop any other depigmented patches characteristic of vitiligo. But in some individuals, vitiligo patches can appear elsewhere on the body, separate from the halo nevus. Children with vitiligo-associated halo nevi are more likely to have the generalized vitiligo subtype, thus requiring a whole body skin examination by a dermatologist at regular intervals.
In short, halo nevi does not elevate risk for disease progression or significantly alter vitiligo treatment response.
Suggested reading: Which Skin Conditions Can Be Mistaken For Vitiligo?
FAQOther Questions
- How can I explain vitiligo to my children?
Vitiligo can be puzzling for a child because a person who has it isn't "ill" in a common sense. To choose the right words to explain vitiligo diagnosis to a child, first consi...
- Does halo nevi affect vitiligo development?
Halo nevi (also known as Sutton's nevi) are characterized by a mole that's surrounded by a ring of depigmented or lighter skin. While both halo nevi and vitiligo involve the des...
- Does vitiligo increase the risk of skin cancer?
No, it does not. Despite common misconceptions, people with vitiligo are actually at a lower risk of developing skin cancer, including both nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and ma...
Though it is not always easy to treat vitiligo, there is much to be gained by clearly understanding the diagnosis, the future implications, treatment options and their outcomes.
Many people deal with vitiligo while remaining in the public eye, maintaining a positive outlook, and having a successful career.
Copyright (C) Bodolóczki JúliaBy taking a little time to fill in the anonymous questionnaire, you can help researchers better understand and fight vitiligo.