Myths & Facts About Vitiligo

Written By : Yasmine Reda

Many people have numerous misconceptions about vitiligo; its symptoms, causes and cure. These misconceptions create a tensed atmosphere around vitiligo patients and how they are treated and viewed by the society. For that, Dr Ahmed Okda, a professional dermatologist, will walk us through the problem of social stigma and tell you the hidden truths about these misconceptions once and for all.

What is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a long-term medical skin condition caused by the lack of melanin, which is the pigment in skin, it causes skin depigmentation where white pale patches appear on the skin in irregular patterns, explained Dr Okda. He also added that it has 2 types non-segmental vitiligo (appear on both sides of your body as symmetrical white patches) and segmental vitiligo (the white patches only affect one area of your body) and in rare cases vitiligo can affect your whole body and turn it all white and it is called “universal or complete vitiligo”.

Misconceptions vs. Truths

Here we will be viewing some of the current misconceptions about vitiligo according to Dr Ahmed Okda

Misconception 1: Vitiligo is an infectious & contagious disease

Truth: Dr Okda affirms that Vitiligo is not by any mean contagious as it is just a skin condition not an infection.

Misconception 2: Vitiligo is due to mixed race marriages

Truth: "Vitiligo has no relation to race or ethnicity as it’s not a genetic affliction, in fact vitiligo doesn’t appear when a child is born however it is a progressive condition and appears with time" said Dr Okda.

Misconception 3: Vitiligo is affected by certain food

Truth: Dr Okda stated that Vitiligo has no relation to your choices of food

Misconception 4: Vitiligo is related to skin cancer

Truth: Dr Okda confirmed that Vitiligo is an independent autoimmune disorder that can happen to anyone and it is not related to cancer or any other diseases

Misconception 5: Vitiligo happens only to dark-skinned people

Truth: "Vitiligo can happen to any person regardless of their race or ethnicity however it is more noticeable among people with dark skin" added Dr Okda

Misconception 6: Vitiligo can be cured

Truth: Dr Okda believes that currently, there is no cure for vitiligo however there are some creams and treatments that can slow it down.

Hopefully this article can participate in creating a safer environment for all people to live happily & normally in.