White Patches on Skin

Diagnosing White Patches

White patches can be difficult to immediately diagnose because, like many other symptoms that manifest themselves on the skin, they can be caused by many different conditions. This is why it's so important to avoid self-diagnosing your white patches and seeking treatment without medical advice. Since there are so many causes, it is always best to seek a doctor's informed opinion.

What Causes White Patches on Skin

Keep in mind that your white patch might be caused by any one of these conditions – or absolutely none of them. These are some common causes of white patches that appear on the skin.

• Vitiligo: An acquired skin condition, it presents itself as a pigmentation disorder in which the cells that make pigment (or melanocytes) are destroyed. White patches on the hands, feet, arms, face, lips, armpits, groin, around the mouth or eyes, nostrils, navel or genitals may appear.

• Halo Nevus: Sometimes seen in individuals who suffer from vitiligo, a halo nevus is a pink- or brown-toned mole surrounded by very light or white skin. There is no specific treatment required, although a yearly skin exam is recommended to rule out any abnormalities or malignant melanomas.

• Morphea: Chances are that you'll know there is something going on if you begin to present symptoms of morphea, or hardening and thickening of the skin. This skin condition causes red or purple patches to appear on the skin, usually on the torso, arms and legs. The patches eventually change to a yellow tint and develop a white center. They may eventually turn brown before finally becoming white.

• Hypopigmentation: A lack or loss of pigment is known as hypopigmentation, which itself can be caused by any number of underlying conditions (such as vitiligo, anemia or tuberous sclerosis, among many others).

• Tinea Versicolor: A superficial fungal infection, tinea versicolor is quite common. The affected skin essentially changes color and becomes either darker or lighter, which may result in white patches on the shoulders, chest, back, groin or folds of the skin.

• Pityriasis Alba: Often mistaken for tinea versicolor, this condition is a mild form of eczema that is most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents with allergies or asthma. It produces slight lightening of the skin and scaling that is in line with typical symptoms of eczema. The word "alba" is actually derived from the Latin word "albus," which means white.

• Lichen Sclerosis: This condition typically affects the vulva, penis or anus. It manifests itself with symptoms including thinning skin and white patches on skin. The patches may be localized or the plaques may spread over a wider area.

Treatments

Since there are several possible causes for white patches, there are equally as many treatments. It should be noted that white patches are not usually a cause for alarm. They can be unsightly but are not typically harmful. However, if the patches are widespread over the body or begin to enlarge, it is worth the time and peace of mind to undergo a thorough evaluation.

Though a physician must prescribe medical treatments, several conditions may also benefit from home remedies. Ayurvedic remedies, for example, such as amla juice mixed with honey and neem leaf juice, are considered helpful treatments for vitiligo. Note that if your skin is very sensitive, it is best to avoid these or at the very least consult your doctor prior to use to ensure that it does not have any adverse effects on your prescription medications.