The typical symptom of Vitiligo is a milky white de-pigmented spot or spots. It may vary from a single white spot to multiple spots. The shape too is a variable; round or irregular in shape. In some cases generalized de-pigmentation observed all over the body. It has a tendency to start as a single spot and gradually grow in size and number. It may present with a single or several spots on limbs or abdomen or back and then spreading to other parts of the body. In some of the vitiligo patches the hair may turn grey suggesting of loss of melanin pigment at the roots.
Vitiligo has certain symptoms and telltale signs that should alert patients and their physicians. Some of the symptoms and signs of vitiligo are:
Sudden discoloration in any part of the body leaving milky white patches on the skin.
Premature whitening of scalp hair, eyebrows & eyelids and beards.
Loss of color in the tissues inside ones’ mouth or inner layer of the eyes.
The discoloration often affects areas that are directly exposed to sunlight such as the hands, feet, arms, face and lips. Other areas to that may get affected with Vitiligo are,
Armpits
Around the lips
Navel
Nostrils
Genitals
Eyes
Rectal areas
How Vitiligo Spreads?
The spread of vitiligo is governed by various factors such as
1. Genetic activity
2. Hormonal factors
3. Continued Stress factors
4. Exposure to chemicals, etc. Many patients may start with just a single spot and may not get more spots for many years or for throughout life time. Some patients may show rapid spread, as fast as from one spot to hundreds, in a few months time. It is not possible to predict the pace of spread. Also, some patients may show intermittent spread. It may be noted form experience that those who pace certain body areas affected such a finger tips, are at higher risk of having an aggressive spread; it is not a rule though. Some patients may present with grey hair, suggesting loss of pigment in the hair.
