Our work is entirely funded by private donations – we receive no money from government. Your money will help us continue funding research into vitiligo and supporting people affected by the condition.
FAQ
Contrary to popular belief, vitiligo is not merely a cosmetic issue but a complex autoimmune disorder that affects the body’s largest organ—along with other vital systems—and is linked to multiple comorbidities.
Comorbidities
Autoimmune Conditions
- Thyroid disorders: 14.3% prevalence among vitiligo patients
- Alopecia areata: 3-8% co-occurrence rate
- Higher prevalence of dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and scleroderma
Metabolic and Systemic Disorders
- Diabetes mellitus
- Metabolic syndrome
- Folate and B12 deficiency anemia
Ocular and Auditory Issues
- Reduced tear production and dry eye symptoms
- Thinner subfoveal choroidal thickness
- High frequency sounds loss
Psychological Impact
- 76% of patients experience moderate to severe stress
- 78% report moderate to severe anxiety
- 80% face moderate to severe depression
- Significant impact on self-esteem and daily life choices
Quality of Life
- Comparable mental health impact to congestive heart failure and asthma
- Greater burden for patients with >5% body surface area affected
- Facial and hand involvement particularly distressing
Pathogenesis Theories
- Genetic predisposition
- Autoimmune responses
- Oxidative stress
- Melanocyte adhesion defects
- Neuronal involvement
Global Prevalence
- Approximately 0.5 to 2.0% of the population, varying geographically.
Understanding vitiligo as a systemic disease emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach in patient care, addressing both physical and psychological aspects of the condition.
For the 1.6 million people in the U.S. living with vitiligo, it’s far more than just a skin condition. Many face social rejection and stigmatization, leading to a profound impact on self-esteem. This can influence critical life decisions, such as where to live or work, often limiting opportunities and experiences.
The emotional toll doesn’t stop there. Stress caused by coping with vitiligo can worsen the condition, creating a vicious cycle that’s hard to break.
In a society where appearance often shapes perceptions and interactions, vitiligo’s effects on mental health and quality of life are profound. It’s a condition that challenges not only the body but also the spirit, underscoring the need for greater understanding, support, and holistic care.
Suggested reading
FAQOther Questions
- Can a gluten-free diet help with vitiligo?
It's very unlikely. We have specifically looked into claims that gluten-free diet may ease symptoms of vitiligo, or completely reverse it, and found no firm scientific evidence ...
- Is it possible to stop the progression of vitiligo?
While it's not always possible to quickly stop vitiligo progression, there are some treatments that can help slow or halt the spread of the condition in many cases: Corticoster...
- What is the best therapy for localized vitiligo?
Localized vitiligo, where the white patches are limited to one or a few areas of the body, can be managed with a few treatment approaches. The best therapy usually depends on th...
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.