Uncommon Autoimmune Diseases Everyone Should Be Aware Of

Signs & Symptoms Of Vitiligo

Probably well known due to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, having vitiligo universalis (meaning all over the body), this autoimmune disorder is a non-contagious, long-term skin condition whose symptoms include visible signs of patches of skin losing pigmentation. These patches become white, have sharp margins, and can affect both sides of the body. They can just be in specific areas or cover the entire body. No specific cause is known. However, research has indicated it could be the result of the immune system attacking and destroying the skin's melanocytes - which are the cells that give skin its color - as well as genetic susceptibility triggered by environmental factors, such as sun exposure.

Continue reading to learn about the risk factors and treatment for vitiligo.