The pathogenetic factors of vitiligo are mainly due to heat in the blood or bodily heat, invasion with exogenous wind or damp, which invade into the skin resulting in disorder of the topical qi(vital energy) and blood, and blockage with the channels and vessels; the blood can not nourish the skin leading to qi-stagnation and hair-orifices blockaded, so that vitiligo is suffered from; and a trauma is prone to get complicated in vitiligo too. Initially, the disease manifested itself of white spots, gradually being extended into patches without fixed site,which is displeasing to the eye.Generally, vitiligo looked white at the suffering site, showing a clear border from the normal skin; owing to hair-orifices blockaded, the suffering skin looked gloosy without scales, An individual case showed with hairs becoming whitened. The disease is less of probability with heredity, and being infectiousless. Vitiligo usually invades the face, neck, limbs, belly, waist, and back, often makes an advance fast in the spring and summer. Generally the suffering area showed without soreness and itch, but with indivudual cases there shows a feeling of itching that always forebodes a tendency of the suffering going on with expansion. Vitiligo exists of an incubation period, so if the pathological state is temporarily to be controlled and showing undeveloped that doesn't mean it wouldn't be advanced once again further. Once a patient's condition gets to be worsened with bad morale or to be irritated by some exogenous factors, the pathological state would become advanced continuously. Quite a few patients showed careless with trusting to luck in the initial time of suffering from the disease to miss the best time for treatment of the disease, when getting complicated in a bigger area advanced, the time period for curing the disease would be longer. Currently the major remedies in treating vitiligo are: ultraviolet irradiation, isolation of pigment, subcutaneous injection, etc. However, the most remedies just merely alleviated the symptoms of the illness but didn't effect a permanent cure, once stopped the treatment, a relapse might occur again. And some medicines matched with hormones which might achieve an effectiveness in short term of treatment, but it wouldn't bring a radical cure of the disease. We consider if you want to treat the ailment completely, should rely on the medical measures of traditional Chinese medicine to regulate the Qi and blood medical measures of traditional Chinese medicine to regulate the Qi an blood of the body, clear away the heat, activate the blood circulation, dredge the channels and vessels in order to support the healthy energy and strengthen the body resistance. Thus, the ailment would be cured perfectly. A series of vitiligo-resolving medicines developed by Xianchen Institute for Vitiligo are Chinese herbal preparations manufactured with genuine Chinese herbs, which is non-toxic, gives no side-effects, runs a short term of course of treatment and achieves a faster and permanent effectiveness. The drugs are applied and taken conveniently, rarely shows recurrence and approaches a high effective rate of 98% and a cure rate over 80%. Some patients just only want to control their symptoms and being eager to get a cure, they didn't keep a well-cooperation to do the medical order with the physician. All the thinking and the way of doing are wrong. If the disease isn't to be cured on the root, it would be got complicated in recurrence that might spend more and would loss confidence in the treatment of the disease. If so, the treatment for the disease is utterly insignificant. Vitiligo is a kind of obstinate ailment, the treating time period might be longer, however, the disease isn't an incurable disease, provided you are confident in sustaining the treatment, you are sure to get a cure. During the course of treatment, you should do strictly depending upon the medical order and the instructions regarding the usage of the drugs, and maintain a better mental state, you can approach the desired results. A vitiligo patient ought to avoid shining to sunshine directly and long living in a damp circumstance, don¡¯t go a blow with electric fan or air conditioner when getting in sweating, maintaining a well regular living habit and a better mind state; some irritant foods such as shrimp, crab, mutton, chili, etc, are forbidden; when getting complicated in vitiligo symptoms should be treated as earlier as possible.

What is the cause of Vitiligo and how to diagnose it? What hazard does Vitiligo has? What should be paid attention to for Vitiligo sufferers in daily life? Why should certain food be avoided for Vitiligo sufferers? What are those avoided food and which kind of food will be helpful to the disease? Is it real that Vitiligo could be cured? I have suffered from serious Vitiligo for a long time, whether I could be cured? Will Vitiligo be infectious or inherited to descendants? How to prevent Vitiligo? Could Vitiligo sufferers be capable to have food containing abundant Vitamin C? Is it able to be treated at home with the mailed medicine? How to remit for the medicine and the medicine will be mailed definitely after remittance? Could children take your medicine? Is it necessary to be hospitalized if I hope to be treated in your institution? Could you please to provide translator? How much is the total expense? Has your medicine been verified by the medicine supervised department of our nation? Is it necessary to take light therapy in use of your medicine? Dose the oral medicine have side-effect?  Will the exterior drug do any harm to normal skin? ¡¡

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Xianchen Institute for Vitiligo:

Cure for Vitiligo| Xianchen Institute for Vitiligo, a patient oriented site dedicated to information on the cure for vitiligo.

1.What is vitiligo?

vitiligo is a relatively common skin disorder, in which white spots or patches appear on the skin. These spots are caused by destruction or weakening of the pigment cells in those areas, resulting in the pigment being destroyed or no longer produced. In most cases, vitiligo is believed to be an autoimmune-related disorder. Although researchers are not exactly sure what causes the automimmune response, more is being learned every year. In vitiligo, only the color of the skin is affected. The texture and other skin qualities remain normal.

2.How does vitiligo develop?

The course and severity of pigment loss differ with each person. In most cases, vitiligo begins in a small area. Over time, other spots may appear, while existing spots may grow larger. Some people notice that their vitiligo may stay the same for years or even decades, and then suddenly new areas of depigmentation may occur. Occasionally, vitiligo patches will repigment spontaneously, all by themselves, with no treatment whatsoever. Most people with vitiligo do notice this happening at one point or another.

3.Will the vitiligo patches spread over time? Will they get larger?

In many, but certainly not all cases, Vitiligo does progress slowly over time, but there is really no way to tell whether your Vitiligo will progress or not. It is a slow progressing condition however, and most patients report that they may go many years without new patches developing, and then may discover new patches appearing years later. Some people even report spots that spontaneously repigment, with no treatment at all. Use of new technologies however, may be able to arrest new spots in their development.

4.What is segmental vitiligo?

Some people develop vitiligo only in one or a few limited areas of their body. This is called segmental vitiligo. People with vitiligo can have a combination of segmental and generalized vitiligo.

5.What is generalized vitiligo?

Most people find that their vitiligo develops in a generalized way, very often with bilateral characteristics, meaning that if a vitiligo patch appears on one elbow, it very often appears on the other elbow about the same time.

6.Is vitiligo at all contagious?

vitiligo is NOT contagious. If it were, many more people in the world, including doctors who treat vitiligo and family members of those with vitiligo, would have the condition. There are many theories about what causes vitiligo, but most experts believe, and data supports the theory, that one must be genetically susceptible, in order to develop vitiligo.

7.Where does the word "vitiligo" come from?

The word "vitiligo" comes from Latin. The first part of the word, "viti" is from the Latin word "vitiligo" meaning a mark or blemish. The suffix, "ligo" is a common Latin ending meaning to bind or cause. Thus, vitiligo means, "to cause a mark or blemish", which is of course what the condition does.

8.How do you pronounce the word "vitiligo"?

Most people pronounce this word incorrectly the first time they see it. But to hear it correctly, say the words "Little I Go." Then replace the first "L" with a "V" - giving you "Vittle I Go." Run the words together and you have the correct pronunciation.

9.What causes vitiligo?

There are many theories about what causes vitiligo, and no one is positively certain. However, experts are almost certain that a genetic predisposition or susceptibility to vitiligo exists in nearly all people who develop vitiligo.

vitiligo may result from a number of factors -- autoimmune, oxidative stress (excess of hydrogen peroxide), neurotrophic (interaction of melanocytes and the nervous system), and toxic (substances formed as a part of normal melanin production actually being toxic to melanocytes) hypotheses have been advanced. The mechanism involves progressive destruction of selected melanocytes, probably by cytotoxic T-cell lymphocytes.

In most cases, it is believed that vitiligo is a type of autoimmune disorder, in which the body's immune system sees the pigment cells in the skin as foreign bodies, and attacks them. The basis for this autoimmune disorder is thought by many to be genetic. It is believed by many that stress, traumatic events, injury, or severe sunburns, may trigger or exacerbate vitiligo in those who are susceptible.

Other theories include the possibility that an abnormally functioning nervous system may produce a substance that injures melanocytes. Some believe that melanocytes in vitiligo patients may self-destruct, releasing toxic byproducts that then destroy other pigment cells. Another theory suggests that vitiligo is entirely genetic, and that there is a defect in the melanocytes that makes them more susceptible to injury.

We know that some cases of vitiligo arise from exposure to certain chemicals, for example, phenols used in photography. Surgery wounds or injuries to the skin have also been known to result in vitiligo, which can spread. The question is, are those people susceptible to vitiligo to begin with. Many experts say yes.

Finally, there are alternative theories about vitiligo that suggest diet, nutrition, and digestive disorders may play a role in the destruction of melanocytes. Some believe that internal pathogens within the digestive tract, such as yeast proliferation, might relate to Vitiligo.

10.Is it true that genetics may play a part in vitiligo?

Most experts believe that there is a genetic base to Vitiligo which leads to susceptibility. Though not common, there are enough family's where Vitiligo is seen in more than one member, that a genetic theory can be established. Though no one else in your family may show signs of vitiligo, it is still possible that it is passed on genetically. The most likely reason for this is that more than one gene is responsible for the development of Vitiligo. It is a combination of genes that may prove to be the critical factor and it may also need some stimulus to cause the condition to onset.

Genes are inherited in a random fashion from both parents, so only sometimes will the genes which make a person susceptible to vitiligo come together in the same person. Those who do not inherit a complete set of the abnormal genes are unlikely to develop the disorder. Those people who do inherit a complete set may also need some other factor to trigger the vitiligo patches to appear. In this way Vitiligo genes can pass through several generations of a family without anyone actually developing vitiligo.

Currently, researchers are studying the genetic aspects of Vitiligo, using gene-sequencing computers and the mapping of the human genome to determine how genetic therapy and technology might help treat or arrest vitiligo.

11.Is it true that exposure to certain chemicals can cause Vitiligo?

It is almost certain that some chemicals, particularly photography chemicals such as Phenols, can trigger Vitiligo in those who are susceptible. Phenols can also be found in many types of hair colorings, household stains, and similar products. There are other industrial chemicals and substances which may also trigger the onset of Vitiligo.

12.Are there things that a person with Vitiligo should avoid?

In addition to the phenol type chemicals listed in the previous paragraph, there are other things and activities which people with Vitiligo should avoid. Unfortunately, the list of activities, products and chemicals to avoid varies, depending on who you talk to. Our Main Message Board has numerous topics about this subject, however, we will be updating this section shortly, with a list of some of the things many people agree may make Vitiligo worse.

13.Are there any other symptoms? Will Vitiligo lead to other conditions or diseases?

Other than the white patches of skin, there are no other physical symptoms of Vitiligo. As a secondary effect, Vitiligo patches will tend to sunburn more easily, and sunscreen is often recommended. Though some websites suggest eye color and vision may be affected by Vitiligo, our research suggests that any effect on eye color or the retinal pigment is extremely rare, and any impairment of vision, even rarer.

14.Is it true that some Vitiligo may be related to a suppressed immune system?

Yes. While MOST cases of vitiligo seem to involve overactive immune response, in which the immune system is essentially attacking its own pigment cells, a minority of cases may be related to a suppressed immune response. Many experts feel that a suppressed immune system CAN co-exist with an autoimmune condition. For this reason, many doctors choose to evaluate immune function, especially in advance of using certain treatments, such as those which work to suppress the immune response. Some doctors feel that there may be other factors at play in autoimmune disorders such as Vitiligo, which may relate more to the function and "programming" of the immune system, rather than the actual strength of the immune system, hence the reason why Vitiligo may still be able to exist in an immune-suppressed individual.

15.Are there other conditions related to Vitiligo?

Vitiligo in of itself does not appear to "lead" to other conditions. However, there are other autoimmune-related conditions, which may arise in vitiligo patients, and that may even arise from the same genetic disorder that results in Vitiligo.

Thyroid disorders (especially hypothyroidism) are quite common in those with vitiligo, and many doctors feel treating thyroid disorders is important in treating Vitiligo. Other related autoimmune conditions are much rarer, but include alopecia areata, pernicious anemia, lupus, and occasionally diabetes. To worry that these other conditions will arise is unwarranted, as they are not very common. But understanding these other conditions, and knowing about their symptoms, may be wise.
Nevertheless, most people with Vitiligo have no other autoimmune disorders.

16.How is thyroid function related to Vitiligo?

Thyroid disorders are extremely common in every ethnic and Vitiligo group on the planet.

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland just below the Adam's apple. This gland plays a very important role in controlling the body's metabolism, that is, how the body functions. It does this by producing thyroid hormones (T4 and T3), chemicals that travel through the blood to every part of the body. Thyroid hormones tell the body how fast to work and use energy.

Because Vitiligo may well be related to numerous functions within the body, a properly functioning thyroid (or sufficient supplemental hormone) could be important in treating Vitiligo.

17.If I am pregnant and have Vitiligo, will my child develop Vitiligo?

Most people with Vitiligo have neither parents, nor children, nor siblings with vitiligo. Many have no other relatives with vitiligo. Vitiligo does appear to be hereditary, that is, it can run in families. Children whose parents have the disorder are more likely to develop Vitiligo. There is no question about that. However, most children will not get vitiligo even if a parent has it, and most people with vitiligo do not have a family history of the disorder. So the chances of your child developing vitiligo appear to be very small. Nevertheless, there are sufficient numbers of families where vitiligo does appear among siblings, parents and children, such that we can assume a genetic factor.

18.Am I at greater risk for skin cancer because of my Vitiligo?

While there is some disagreement in the medical community, many Vitiligo experts believe there is not an increased risk for skin cancer in Vitiligo patients. According to Pearl Grimes, MD, considered one of the world's leading medical experts on vitiligo, "the current data show no increase in skin cancer in Vitiligo patients, both within the vitiligo patches, or the normal skin...either way."

Some in the medical profession believe there may be no increased risk in the case of melanomas, but that there may be a slightly elevated risk for some types of carcinomas. The medical community is still investigating this question, but the answer may well be important both for cancer and Vitiligo research.

Additionally, is PUVA or UVB associated with an increase in skin cancer in areas of Vitiligo? Dr. Grimes says no. In psoriasis literature and articles, we do see an increase in skin cancer for those treating with UV light. But this is NOT the case for Vitiligo patients. Dr. Grimes thinks this is due both to the WAY they are treated, and also something in the property of Vitiligo patches that creates a protection from skin cancer. In the case of Narrow Band UVB itself, many suggest that UVB is less carcinogenic. Dr. Grimes is fairly sure that is the case, but more data is needed first, since UVB and narrow band UVB are so new. But it appears that UVB is safer as far as skin cancer.

19.Can Vitiligo cause loss of eye color? Can it cause blindness?

In a very, very small percentage of people with Vitiligo, eye color pigment may be affected by Vitiligo, however, there is no data or evidence of anyone suffering any weakening or loss of vision due to Vitiligo. This is a myth that got started in the vitiligo community several years ago, and has no basis in fact. What should be understood however is that UV light treatment CAN cause damage to vision, and so proper eye protection (goggles) should always be worn. For those treating the areas around the eyes (perioccular) with UV light, doctors will often limit exposure time compared to the rest of the skin, and the eyes should be kept gently shut.

20.Who is affected by Vitiligo?

About 1 to 2 percent of the world's population, or from 50 to 100 million people, have Vitiligo. In the United States, 2 to 5 million people have the disorder. It is suspected that some countries may have higher incidents of vitiligo, for various genetic and societal reasons. Ninety-five percent of people who have Vitiligo develop it before their 40th birthday, most between the ages of 10 and 30. The disorder affects all races, ethnicities and both sexes equally, which suggests that it truly is a human problem. Even on remote islands where the population is completely homogenous, we see instances of Vitiligo.

People with certain autoimmune disorders do seem to be more likely to develop Vitiligo, although the opposite is not true. These autoimmune disorders include hyperthyroidism (an overactive or underactive thyroid gland), adrenocortical insufficiency (the adrenal gland does not produce enough of the hormone called corticosteroid) , alopecia areata (patches of baldness), and pernicious anemia (a low level of red blood cells caused by failure of the body to absorb vitamin B12).

21.How many people have Vitiligo?

About 1 to 2% of the world's population has Vitiligo, which means anywhere from 50 to 100 million people are affected. 100 million people is roughly the population of California, New York, Illinois, Florida and Texas combined.

22.How long has Vitiligo existed?

We believe that Vitiligo has existed at least as long as the recorded history of man, and probably before that, since similar conditions are seen in many other animals. References to Vitiligo patches are mentioned in the bible, and in ancient Chinese and Greek writings.

23.Is it true that singer Michael Jackson has Vitiligo?

Back in the 1980's, many fans could not understand why singer Michael Jackson was bleaching his skin white, and even made fun of him. In the early 1990's, Michael and his doctor revealed that he did indeed have Vitiligo, and had chosen to depigment completely using a special medicine. Though certainly painful for him, this created a significantly greater awareness and understanding of Vitiligo than had ever before been seen. There are in fact many celebrities, and even government leaders in the U.S. and the world, who have Vitiligo.

24.How is vitiligo diagnosed?

If a doctor suspects that a person has Vitiligo, he or she usually begins by asking the person about his or her medical history. Important factors in a person's medical history are a family history of vitiligo; a rash, sunburn, or other skin trauma at the site of Vitiligo 2 to 3 months before depigmentation started; stress or physical illness; and premature graying of the hair (before age 35). In addition, the doctor will need to know whether the patient or anyone in the patient's family has had any autoimmune disorders and whether the patient is very sensitive to the sun.

The doctor will then examine the patient to rule out other medical problems. The doctor may take a small sample (biopsy) of the affected skin. He or she may also take a blood sample to check the blood-cell count and thyroid function. Most certainly, the doctor will examine your skin with a special black light called a Woods Light, which illuminates areas of Vitiligo. This also helps the doctor rule out other conditions. For some patients, the doctor may recommend an eye examination to check for uveitis (inflammation of part of the eye). A blood test to look for the presence of antinuclear antibodies (a type of autoantibody) may also be done. This test helps determine if the patient has any other autoimmune conditions.

25.One doctor told me vitiligo could not be treated. Is that correct?

Vitiligo is difficult to treat - that much is true. But in the past few years, new treatments have been developed that are working better. And there are more options. Vitiligo can be treated, though results can take time. Even though treatment can take from 6 months up to two years or longer to see results, there are many treatments out there to try - and some newer treatments are showing faster results. Where you don't see good results with one treatment, another may work better. Many doctors are only familiar with PUVA and steroid creams, older technologies in treating Vitiligo (though certainly quite viable and successful for many). The reason for this is twofold. On the one hand, many dermatologists are very conservative when it comes to treatment, and for many reasons, are not quick to try new things. On the other hand, vitiligo is just one aspect of a dermatologist's practice, and many doctors simply cannot stay abreast of all new treatments. Part of the purpose of Vitiligo Support.org is to help patients inform doctors about new treatments as they are developed.

26.A doctor told me vitiligo was just cosmetic, I was lucky I didn't have cancer, and not to worry about it. Is he right?

No. While it's true that Vitiligo is not fatal, and that it has no other physical symptoms other than white patches, the emotional and social effects of vitiligo on people are well-documented. Vitiligo should not be dismissed by a doctor as merely cosmetic. If this occurs though, do not be angry. Explain to the doctor that this condition is hurting you psychologically, and that it is important to you that your condition be taken seriously.

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