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Vitiligo is caused by a loss of pigment in the skin, due to destruction of pigment forming cells known as melanocytes. Although vitiligo affects all races equally, it is more noticeable in dark-skinned people. Vitiligo can cause cosmetic problems.

The risk of getting vitiligo increases if a person has: A close blood relative who has vitiligo. An autoimmune disease, especially Hashimoto's disease, a thyroid disease or alopecia areata which causes hair reduction.

Melanin is the pigment that gives the skin its characteristic color. Vitiligo is caused by a loss of pigment in the skin, due to destruction of pigment-forming cells known as melanocytes. Although vitiligo affects all races equally, it is more noticeable in dark-skinned people. Vitiligo can cause cosmetic problems.

Children with extensive vitiligo, a dermatologist may recommend narrow band UVB light treatments.

If vitiligo patients have an overactive immune system that kills normal melanocytes, it makes sense that they are able to clear the abnormal melanocytes of melanoma.Also, new treatments for melanoma that increase the immune attack of the tumors also cause vitiligo.

There is no way to predict if vitiligo will spread. Vitiligo is usually progressive, however, and over time will usually spread to other areas of the body. Some people report pigment loss following periods of physical or emotional stress