What are the early symptoms of vitiligo?

Condition analysis:
Even though the exact cause of vitiligo remains unknown, most experts believe that a combination of many factors contribute to the onset of the disease. Some of these factors are heredity, exposure to certain chemicals (phenol, catechol etc.), emotional/physical stress, autotoxic response, skin injuries, burns and inflammatory skin disorders. The condition may also be autoimmune in origin although the presence of autoantibodies has not been confirmed yet.

Any part of the body may be affected by Vitiligo, depigmentation usually develops first on sun exposed areas of the skin, such as hands, feet, arms, face and lips. Genitals also may be affected. It can start to appear at any age, Vitiligo usually first appears between the ages of 10 and 30. Vitiligo generally appears in one of three patterns – Generalized. In this most frequent subtype, pigment loss is extensive across many parts of the body, often evenly. Segmental loss of skin color happens on only one side of the body. This is more inclined to happen at a younger age, progress for a year or two, and then stop. Focal depigmentation is limited to one or a few areas of the body.

Instructions:
Vitiligo is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from one person to another. As far as prevention of the condition is concerned, any skin patch should be thoroughly examined. One should maintain good health and keep the immune system strong. Furthermore, it is essential to avoid application of any unproven topical medication on the skin, especially corticosteroids. Some say that even avoiding excess consumption of sour things can help.