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What are the Known Causes of Vitiligo

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Vitiligo or also known as leukoderma is a skin disorder in which there is pigment loss from areas of the skin. This skin condition is characterized by enlarged white spots or patches on certain parts of the body. Vitiligo can occur at any age, but studies show that 50% of diagnosed patients are under 20 years of age. This type of skin disorder occurs in all races but this condition is more noticeable in patients with darker skin.
 
The precise causes of vitiligo are unknown. According to theories based on research and evidence collected from different vitiligo patients, the following are believed to be the leading known causes of vitiligo:
 
1. Autoimmune Disorder - An autoimmune disorder is one of the known causes of vitiligo. This happens when the body's own immune system attacks the melanocytes. Melanocytes are cell-producing melanin. When these cells are attacked or destroyed by the body's immune system, the patient will start losing pigment in the skin. Problems with the immune system are triggered by different factors.
 
2. Genetic Factors - Genes have been found out to have affected the development of vitiligo. Studies have revealed that 10% of vitiligo patients have a family history of the skin disorder. According to research, patients who have parents or other family members who have vitiligo are more susceptible to acquire the skin condition compared to people who don't have family members that have been diagnosed with vitiligo.
 
3. Stress and Trauma - Stressful and traumatic events are also some causes of vitiligo. There are some vitiligo patients who experienced their first outbreak during traumatic and stressful events. Stress has been associated with vitiligo since it is one of the triggers of low immune system. When the body's immune system is low, it is becoming more susceptible to skin disorder.
 
4. Severe Sunburns - Experts believe that severe sunburns may trigger or exacerbate vitiligo in patients who are susceptible. Those who are susceptible to have this skin disorder are advised to wear products that contain SPF in order to prevent vitiligo.
 
5. Nutritional Deficiency - Most vitiligo patients have deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals which made nutritional deficiency as one of the known causes of vitiligo. Poor nutrition can lead to low immune system which can make the body become more susceptible to certain health risks including vitiligo. Balanced diet is always recommended to those who are at risk of having this skin condition.
 
Studies show that these are just some of the causes that might trigger vitiligo. Although these have not yet been recognized by scientific and medical communities, it is still important to be knowledgeable with these possible causes. It is also important to take necessary steps to address some of the above possible causes like stress, severe sunburns and nutritional deficiency. Taking proactive steps to address these possible causes can certainly increase your chances of not getting the said skin condition.

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