Vitiligo is an acquired pigmentary disorder of the skin and mucous membranes,
and it is characterized by circumscribed depigmented macules and patches.
Vitiligo is a progressive disorder in which some or all of the melanocytes in
the affected skin are selectively destroyed. Vitiligo affects 0.5-2% of the
world population, and the average age of onset is 20 years.
Treatment results will vary by person and type of vitiligo. The rule of thumb is that you will need to allow at least 3 to 6 months before you begin to see results from any treatment, and you may expect satisfactory results within 12-18 months.
Presently, there is no cure for vitiligo but it can be managed effectively through many different approaches. It is also important to remember there is no one therapy that works for everyone. Vitiligo is a complex disease and requires a complex, prolonged therapy. There are also some people who do not seem to respond to any therapy.
Newly appeared depigmented spots can be efficiently treated soon after onset, typically within the first 6-8 weeks of the appearance of white lesions. Unfortunately, new patients get trapped between physicians, dermatologists, insurance companies and their daily activities, and typically lose this best window of opportunity. Early treatment will produce better and longer lasting results, which is why medical care should be sought as soon as possible to stop the patches from spreading.
Learn more about What Are Symptoms of Vitiligo
Treatment results will vary by person and type of vitiligo. The rule of thumb is that you will need to allow at least 3 to 6 months before you begin to see results from any treatment, and you may expect satisfactory results within 12-18 months.
Presently, there is no cure for vitiligo but it can be managed effectively through many different approaches. It is also important to remember there is no one therapy that works for everyone. Vitiligo is a complex disease and requires a complex, prolonged therapy. There are also some people who do not seem to respond to any therapy.
Newly appeared depigmented spots can be efficiently treated soon after onset, typically within the first 6-8 weeks of the appearance of white lesions. Unfortunately, new patients get trapped between physicians, dermatologists, insurance companies and their daily activities, and typically lose this best window of opportunity. Early treatment will produce better and longer lasting results, which is why medical care should be sought as soon as possible to stop the patches from spreading.
Learn more about What Are Symptoms of Vitiligo
