Vitiligo is a skin disorder stemming from a lack of normal melanin pigment. Vitiligo occurs when pigment-producing melanocyte cells are destroyed or fail to function properly. Distinctly bordered milky-white patches can develop anywhere on the body, and commonly occur on the face, neck, hands, groin and legs. Both sides of the body are frequently affected.

No one knows the precise cause of vitiligo. No one knows why the pigmented cells (called melanocytes) disappear. Researchers believe malfunctions in the nervous system or the immune system may injure or destroy the melanocytes. Since vitiligo can be inherited, there is also a genetic element to the disease.

According to the National Vitiligo Foundation, many people report pigment loss shortly after trauma or injury to the skin or an emotionally stressful event. Early graying of the hair is sometimes associated with vitiligo. It is impossible to predict the course of vitiligo; each case is unique. The condition often begins with a rapid loss of pigment, which may be followed by a lengthy period when the skin color does not change. Later, the pigment loss may resume. Cycles of pigment loss, followed by periods of stability may repeat indefinitely. It is rare for those with vitiligo to regain skin color spontaneously.

Vitiligo affects at least 1% of the population. Nearly half of the people who develop the skin disorder experience some pigment loss before the age of 20, and one-third of all patients have other family members with the condition. Most vitiligo sufferers are in good health, but some patients also have altered thyroid function, pernicious anemia (a vitamin B12 deficiency), Addison's disease (decreased adrenal function), alopecia areata (round patches of hair loss) or uveitis (inflammation of the eyes.)

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