Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes patches of skin to lose pigment or color. The cause of vitiligo is unknown, but it may be related to immune system changes, genetic factors, stress, or sun exposure 13 . Vitiligo can affect skin on any part of the body, and the discolored areas usually get bigger with time 8 . The condition can also affect hair and the inside of the mouth 8 . Symptoms The signs and symptoms of vitiligo include: Patchy loss of skin color, which usually first appears on the hands, face, and areas around body openings and the genitals 8 14 Premature whitening or graying of the hair on your scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows, or beard 8 14 Loss of color in the tissues that line the inside of the mouth and nose (mucous membranes) 8 14 Causes Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease. This means that your immune system is attacking healthy cells in your body that give your skin its color 9 . While the exact cause of vitiligo is unknown, it m...
Strategic analysis on geopolitics, financial systems, and Pakistani affairs, blended with personal stories and commentary from Karachi. Written by Munaeem Jamal.