Vitiligo: Compendium of clinico-epidemiological features

Abstract

Vitiligo, an autoimmune disorder characterized by localized and/or generalized depigmentation of the skin and/or mucous membranes, is a well-recognized entity. The imperatives of its epidemiology both in rural India and in global reckoning have been highlighted frequently. Its morphology is striking and is characterized by asymptomatic ivory/chalky white macule(s) that may be frequently surrounded by a prominent pigmented border, the 'trichrome vitiligo'. However vitiligo may have morphological variations in the form of: trichrome, quadri-chrome, penta-chrome, blue and inflammatory vitiligo. Its current topographical classification into segmental, zosteriform and nonsegmental, areata, vulgaris, acrofacialis and mucosal represent its well acclaimed presentations. Its adult and childhood onset is well appreciated as also its presentation in males and females. Occasionally, it may be possible to identify triggering factors. Vitiligo may be associated with cutaneous, ocular and systemic disorders, the details of which are discussed in this article.

Perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes com vitiligo e sua associação com doenças da tireoide

“…16 The low frequency may have occurred due to lack of questioning about the phenomenon. Emotional stress has been mentioned as a triggering factor in other studies, 6,14 but these data are still limited and there is no established evidence in the literature.…”

“…The universal form corresponds to 50% depigmentation of the skin and/or mucous membranes. 2,6,10 Vitiligo is caused by a pigmentation disorder due to the destruction of melanocytes. However, its etiopathogenesis has not yet been fully understood.…”

Prevailing Misconceptions of Vitiligo among Saudi School Children

“…All students in the selected class received the questionnaire; the questionnaire was developed based on international standards concerning the prevailing myths and misconceptions about vitiligo. (4,5) The opinion of school health doctors was also taken in consideration through piloting 30 questionnaires to assess the administrative and procedural logistics; the questionnaire was self-administered and translated into Arabic. The questionnaires included a section on social-demographic information (age, sex, education of parents).…”

“…(3) It can affect any age of both sex. (4,5) Vitiligo is an ancient disease as mentioned in the Holy Quran when stating 'Eesa that he cures the born blind and the patient with Baras (vitiligo). (6) Female patients are more self-conscious and embarrassed of the disease than men, with more impairment of their social life, personal relationships, sexual activities and choice of clothing.…”

Herbal Remedies and New Approaches in Vitiligo Treatment

“…yazdığı "De Medicina" isimli kitaptır. 13 Kuran'da da beyaz cilt anlamına gelen "baras" kelimesi, Hz. İsa'nın tedavi ettiği bir hastalığı açıklamak için kullanılmıştır.…”