Leucoderma, also known as vitiligo, is a rare skin disease characterized by white spots and patches. The white patch or spot is called as leucoderma, and when it occurs without any preceding disease it is called Vitiligo. Leucoderma, in literal term means white skin.

The cause of vitiligo is unknown, but research suggests that it may arise from autoimmune condition in which immune system of body destroys its own cells & tissues, genetic, stress. There are different theories suggesting autoimmune syndrome (a condition whereby the immune system of body destroys body’s own tissues & cells), impaired hepatic function as jaundice, gastric disorder, typhoid fever etc.

Leucoderma may appear due to certain external accidental causes, such a burn, a cut or an ulcer. These external factors damage melanocytes, the cells beneath skin which produce the melanin pigment. It results in diminished skin colour patches, which later converts white and prominent, forming white patches.

IMAGES OF LEUCODERMA SUFFRER

Studies have shown that immunomodulator creams such as Protopic and Elidel cause repigmentation in some cases, when used with UVB narrowband treatments. A 1997 report suggests that combining vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements with sun exposure caused repigmentation in 62% of cases.Most potent agent for chemical leucoderma is Mono benzoyl ether of hydro quinone.

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