The history of vitiligo dates back to ancient times. In the Ebers papyrus, written in the 15th century BC. C., a skin disorder is mentioned that caused a change in color. In the ancient sacred texts of Hinduism, such as the Atharvaveda (dated between the 12th and 10th centuries BC), the word kilas (kilăsa) is mentioned, derived from the term kil which means “white spot of the skin”. Read: Vitiligo, the two shades of life
Towards the end of the 19th century, the Hungarian dermatologist Moritz Kaposi defined vitiligo as a pigmentary dystrophy. In the 19th century, vitiligo began to be studied more scientifically. British doctor Robert Willan was one of the first to classify vitiligo as a skin disease and describe its clinical characteristics.
Despite these advances, there are still many unknowns about vitiligo and research continues to better understand this disease and develop more effective treatments.
That is why the Colombian Association of Dermatology and Dermatological Surgery (Asocolderma) has undertaken a key initiative to increase understanding of vitiligo, a skin condition that significantly impacts between 0.5 and 2% of the global population. Vitiligo is characterized by the loss of pigmentation in specific areas of the skin, presenting not only medical challenges, but also emotional ones for those who face it. Read: Recommendations to prevent premature aging
It is an autoimmune disease that affects both the physical health and emotional well-being of patients.”
Claudia Arenas, president of Asocolderma.
Dr. Claudia Arenas, president of Asocolderma, has highlighted the importance of fully understanding this disease. “We are facing an alarming situation where only 30% of the general population can correctly identify vitiligo,” said Arenas. “It is essential that we understand that vitiligo is not just a cosmetic concern; “It is an autoimmune disease that affects both the physical health and emotional well-being of patients.”
Although vitiligo most commonly occurs around the age of 20, it is crucial to recognize that it can arise at any age. Additionally, approximately 30% of patients have a family history of the disease, and a similar incidence of personal or family history of other autoimmune diseases is seen.
Early identification of vitiligo is vital for effective management and can significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Although it is neither contagious nor a health risk, the emotional impact can be substantial, with more than 75% of patients developing a negative self-perception due to the disease.
In terms of treatment, the objectives focus on stopping the progression of the disease, trying to repigment skin lesions and preventing relapses. From topical to systemic treatments, the strategy varies depending on the extent of the disease and its impact on the patient’s quality of life.
“It is crucial to control all the external factors that trigger and aggravate the disease, including a diet rich in antioxidants, stress control, good rest and exercise,” emphasized Dr. Arenas.
