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Vitiligo
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What is Vitiligo?

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Vitiligo is a chronic disease that affects the skin, manifesting itself in the form of patches that lose pigmentation; these are known by dermatologists as achromic macules.

Although it is not harmful or contagious, it can have significant effects on the appearance and self-esteem of patients.

Vitiligo occurs when the cells responsible for producing melanin (melanocytes), the pigment that gives colour to the skin, hair and eyes, are destroyed or stop functioning. This causes depigmented patches (achromic macules) to appear on the skin. The size, number and extent of the patches is variable, and the disease may be in an active or stabilised phase.

Types of Vitiligo

There are several types of vitiligo, affecting different parts of the body:

  • Universal vitiligo. The discolouration in this type affects almost the entire surface of the skin.
  • Generalised vitiligo. This is the most common type, when the colourless patches are usually symmetrical, appearing similarly on both sides of the body.
  • Segmental vitiligo. This appears on one side or a specific part of the body. It usually appears at an early age, progresses for one or two years and then stabilises.
  • Focal vitiligo. This occurs on one or more parts of the body, in a localised, isolated manner.
  • Acrofacial vitiligo. This type affects the skin on the face, hands and around body openings such as the eyes, nose and ears.

How many people are affected by Vitiligo?

Vitiligo can affect people of all ages, of different skin types and tones and both sexes; although it usually begins before the age of 40. It affects about 1% of the world's population, making it one of the most common dermatological diseases. However, prevalence varies by region and ethnic group. 
 

Read more Causes and risk factors
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Substantiated information by:

Paula Aguilera Peiro

Published: 19 November 2024
Updated: 19 November 2024

The donations that can be done through this webpage are exclusively for the benefit of Hospital Clínic of Barcelona through Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica and not for BBVA Foundation, entity that collaborates with the project of PortalClínic.

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