Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterised by the loss of normal pigment, resulting in pale, white or light pink patches on the skin that is more noticeable in those with darker skin tones. Affecting about one per cent of the global population, it is not infectious and does not discriminate by gender or race.
What Causes Vitiligo? The pigment responsible for your skin’s colour is called melanin, produced by cells known as melanocytes. In vitiligo, the melanocytes in the affected patches become inactive, although they may still be present. The exact reason for this inactivity is not fully understood. However, vitiligo is considered an autoimmune condition, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells—in this case, the melanocytes.
The Hereditary Aspect of Vitiligo: Vitiligo does have a genetic basis, but it’s not always straightforward. Less than half of those with vitiligo have a family member who also has the condition, indicating that while genetics play a role, other factors are also at work.
Can Vitiligo Be Cured? Currently, there is no cure for vitiligo. However, there are several treatment options available that can help manage the condition and improve the appearance of the skin.
How Is Vitiligo Treated? Choosing whether or not to treat vitiligo is a personal decision that should be made after consulting with a healthcare professional. The NHS offers several treatment options, including:
Psychological support or talking therapy: To help manage the emotional and psychological impacts of the condition.
Topical calcineurin inhibitors and corticosteroids: To help reduce inflammation and promote repigmentation.
Phototherapy: Often combined with topical or oral steroids to enhance treatment effectiveness.
Depigmentation: For those with extensive vitiligo, removing the remaining pigment to achieve a more uniform skin tone.
Vitiligo Research in the UK: Exciting advancements are taking place in research right here in the UK. I have recently established the Vitiligo Clinical And Research Centre (Vitiligo CARE) at the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust in West Midlands.
The centre aims to provide research opportunities and evidence-based treatments that are not widely available elsewhere, such as home handheld phototherapy. Our experienced team at CARE runs several late-phase international trials for both adults and children with vitiligo, and the centre accepts referrals from out of the area.
Understanding vitiligo is the first step toward managing it effectively. With ongoing research and the development of new treatments, we have more options and support than ever before. Stay informed and explore the possibilities for managing this condition with the help of dedicated professionals like myself.
Complex care, often referred to as long-term or continuing care, is a specialised form of healthcare tailored to individuals with significant and ongoing health issues. These issues may stem from chronic illnesses, disabilities, or injuries that require a higher level of support than standard healthcare services can provide. People needing complex care often face multiple health challenges simultaneously, making personalised, coordinated care essential for maintaining their quality of life.