Skin Micrograft - Leucoderma

Leucoderma / Vitiligo

Leucoderma or Vitiligo is most often a misunderstood disease. Here's more on what causes it, its symptoms and treatment.

What is Leucoderma or Vitiligo?
Vitiligo or leucoderma is a disease in which the skin loses pigment due to the destruction of melanocytes or pigment cells i.e. areas of the skin become white.

Who gets Leucoderma?
Leucoderma affects at least a percent of the population; both males and females are equally affected. The age of onset can be from birth to old age; however, it is most common in individuals between the ages of 15-30. Nearly 20 percent cases are genetic. Even though most people with vitiligo are in good health, they face a greater risk of having thyroid problems, anemia, and alopecia.

What is the course of the disease?
Leucoderma is notorious for its erratic behaviour. The course varies from person to person and in the same individual from time to time. Spontaneous re-pigmentation is rare.

Is this disease contagious?
No! Leucoderma is not contagious i.e. it cannot spread by touching someone or even by handling personal belongings or food.

Can Vitiligo / Leucoderma be treated ?

This disease can be treated with the following treatment option:a) Photo chemotherapy (PUVA) or vitiligo micro punch skin grafting.b) Melanocyte / pigment culturingAll parts of the body can be treated; Even the sensitive areas like eyelids, lips, fingers and joints can be treated without any scars.

Contact Dr. Satish Bhatia to consult further.