Vitiligo is a chronic skin disease that can affect children. It is characterized by the appearance of white spots due to a deficiency of melanin, the pigment in the skin. Although it doesn't cause physical pain, it certainly has a significant psychological impact on the child, especially during the delicate childhood stage.
What is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a chronic skin disorder that occurs when the pigment cells responsible for producing melanin lose their function or die, resulting in the appearance of white or light-colored patches on the skin. Vitiligo can appear at any age, but it often begins in childhood.
What are the causes of vitiligo in children?
The exact causes of vitiligo are unknown, but several factors play a role in its development, including:
- Genetic factors, as vitiligo is linked to genes.
- Autoimmune disorders, when the immune system mistakenly attacks melanin cells.
- Emotional or physical stress, as it sometimes appears after psychological trauma or physical injury.
- Exposure to harmful chemicals.
- Other autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disease or type 1 diabetes.
Symptoms of Vitiligo in Children
There are several symptoms that indicate that children have vitiligo, including:
- The appearance of white or light patches on the skin, usually on the face, hands, feet, or areas around the mouth and eyes.
- Hair color may change to white or gray in certain areas, such as the eyelashes and eyebrows.
- Pigmentation may be lost inside the mouth and nose.
- The patches may expand or remain the same for a long time.
Methods for Diagnosing Vitiligo in Children
There are several methods for diagnosing the condition, including:
- Clinical examination by a dermatologist.
- Using a Wood's lamp to clearly see the patches under ultraviolet light.
- Sometimes a skin sample is taken to rule out other conditions.
- Blood tests to ensure the absence of other autoimmune diseases.
Possible Complications After Vitiligo
There are some complications that may occur after vitiligo, including:
- Increased skin sensitivity to the sun.
- Psychological and social problems due to the different appearance.
- Possibility of developing other immune diseases.
- Permanent loss of skin color if the condition is not controlled.
Medications Used to Treat Vitiligo in Children
There are some medications used to treat or control the disease, including:
- Topical cortisone to reduce inflammation and stimulate color return.
- Calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus, are used in sensitive areas such as the face.
- Immune system suppressants in some severe cases.
- Antioxidants to help protect skin cells.
Caution: These medications should be used under the supervision of a specialist.
Methods of Treating Vitiligo in Children
There are several methods used to treat vitiligo in children, including:
- UVB or PUVA phototherapy, which exposes the skin to ultraviolet light to stimulate melanin production.
- Surgical treatment, such as melanocyte transplantation, in stable cases that do not respond to drug therapy.
- Psychological therapy and behavioral support to help the child adapt.
Preventive Methods to Reduce the Risk of Infection in Children
Vitiligo cannot be completely prevented, but there are several ways to reduce the risk of infection, including:
- Reducing psychological stress in children.
- Protecting the skin from the sun by using sunscreen.
- Treating immune diseases early.
- Avoiding skin-irritating chemicals.
How does vitiligo affect a child's psyche?
The child may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their appearance.
The child may be subjected to bullying or may suffer from anxiety, social isolation, or low self-esteem.
How should parents deal with their child?
Provide emotional support and ongoing encouragement, and educate the child that vitiligo is neither contagious nor dangerous.
Boost their self-confidence and avoid focusing on their appearance. Involve them in social activities and support them in confronting bullying if they are exposed to it.
Consistent follow-up with a dermatologist and a psychologist to monitor the child's psychological condition.
What is the difference between vitiligo and pityriasis alba?
Vitiligo appears as a loss of skin color due to the death of pigment cells.
Pityriasis alba appears as white patches and is often accompanied by itching and scaling.
Summary of Vitiligo in Children and Prevention
Vitiligo in children is a skin condition resulting from a lack of melanin, leading to the appearance of white patches on the skin, particularly on the face. It may be related to genetic factors or an immune system disorder. It is not contagious or serious, but it affects the child's psychological well-being due to changes in appearance.
To prevent vitiligo, care must be taken to reduce stress and protect the skin from sunlight by using sunscreen. Early detection and psychological support from the family of the affected child can improve their quality of life.