Leukoderma / Vitiligo Treatment
Leukoderma / Vitiligo Treatment in Bhubaneswar
Leukoderma, commonly known as Vitiligo, is a long-term skin condition characterized by the loss of pigmentation in certain areas of the skin. It leads to white patches that can appear on any part of the body, including the face, hands, arms, feet, and genitals. Though not medically dangerous or contagious, vitiligo can deeply affect a person’s emotional and psychological well-being due to its visible appearance.
What is Leukoderma / Vitiligo?
Vitiligo (Leukoderma) is an autoimmune skin disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys melanocytes—the cells responsible for producing melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color). This results in white patches or depigmented areas that may gradually expand over time. It can affect people of all skin types, but is more noticeable in those with darker skin. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it may be linked to genetics, autoimmune diseases, oxidative stress, or neural factors. While vitiligo is not painful or life-threatening, its psychosocial impact can be significant. There is no permanent cure, but several treatments can help restore pigment or even out skin tone.
Different Types of Vitiligo
Non-segmental Vitiligo (most common)
Affects both sides of the body symmetrically
More likely to spread over time
Segmental Vitiligo
Appears on one side or area of the body
Often begins earlier in life and spreads less aggressively
Focal Vitiligo
Limited to a few small areas without a specific pattern
Mucosal Vitiligo
Affects only the mucous membranes like inside the mouth or genitals
Universal Vitiligo
Extremely rare; almost complete depigmentation of the body
Symptoms of Vitiligo
White or pale patches on the skin
Symmetrical (bilateral) or segmental (localized) patterns of patch development
Early greying of scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes
Depigmented spots inside the mouth, nose, or genitals
Progressive enlargement of white patches
Some patients experience itching or mild irritation in affected areas
Causes of Leukoderma / Vitiligo
✅ 1. Autoimmune Reaction
Vitiligo is widely considered an autoimmune disorder. The immune system mistakenly targets and destroys melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. This leads to the development of white patches.
✅ 2. Genetic Predisposition
There is a hereditary component in vitiligo. About 20-30% of patients have a family history of the condition. Certain genes involved in immune regulation and melanin production may be mutated or overactive.
✅ 3. Neurogenic Factors
Some researchers believe that the nerves in affected areas may release toxic substances that damage melanocytes. This neurochemical theory explains segmental or localized vitiligo in some cases.
✅ 4. Oxidative Stress
An imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals in the skin can lead to oxidative stress, damaging melanocytes and triggering depigmentation. This may be worsened by sunburn, skin trauma, or chemical exposure.
✅ 5. Environmental Triggers
Certain external factors can contribute to the onset or worsening of vitiligo:
Skin injuries (cuts, burns, or repeated friction)
Sunburn or chemical irritants
Exposure to industrial chemicals like phenols or catechols
✅ 6. Hormonal Imbalance
In some cases, thyroid disorders or hormonal changes (especially during puberty or pregnancy) may be linked to the onset or spread of vitiligo.
✅ 7. Stress & Emotional Trauma
Though not a direct cause, mental stress is known to trigger or aggravate vitiligo, especially in people with a genetic or immune predisposition.
Vitiligo / Leukoderma Treatment
✅ 1. Topical Medications
Topical Corticosteroids: Help repigment the skin and reduce inflammation (effective in early stages)
Calcineurin Inhibitors (Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus): Safe for sensitive areas like the face or genitals
Vitamin D Analogues: Sometimes used alongside topical steroids
Depigmentation Agents (Monobenzone): For patients with widespread vitiligo who want to unify skin tone
✅ 2. Phototherapy (Light-Based Treatment)
Narrowband UVB Therapy (NB-UVB): Most effective treatment for widespread vitiligo; stimulates melanocyte activity
Excimer Laser: Targets small areas with concentrated UVB light; useful for limited patches
PUVA Therapy (Psoralen + UVA): Less commonly used today but may help in certain resistant cases
✅ 3. Surgical Treatments (for stable vitiligo)
Skin Grafting (Punch or Split-thickness Grafts): Transferring pigmented skin to depigmented areas
Blister Grafting: Blisters are formed and transplanted to affected areas
Melanocyte Transplantation: Cultured melanocytes are applied to vitiligo patches
✅ 4. Cosmetic Camouflage & Supportive Care
Medical-grade Skin Camouflage Creams: Temporary coverage of white patches
Self-tanning products (Dihydroxyacetone-based): Offer safe, temporary pigmentation
Sunscreens: Crucial to protect depigmented skin from sunburn
Counseling & Support Groups: Emotional and psychological support for self-esteem
✅ 5. Natural & Ayurvedic Remedies (Complementary, not standalone)
Psoralea corylifolia (Babchi): Used in Ayurveda along with sunlight exposure
Turmeric and Mustard Oil Paste: Claimed to support pigmentation
Copper-Rich Diet: Some suggest drinking water from copper vessels to support melanin production
Note: Always consult your dermatologist before using natural treatments.
