Vitiligo

Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition that occurs in as much as 1% of the U.S. population.

It is characterized by the loss of natural skin color or by discolored patches on various parts of the body, including the face, neck, and scalp, as well as mucous membranes, including lips.

Vitiligo is a multifactorial disorder of the skin characterized by loss of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). Loss of pigmentation often starts on the hands, feet, or face and is typically progressive. It is a skin disease that affects people of all skin types but may be more noticeable in people with darker skin.

Because of the effect on the person’s appearance, vitiligo can be life-altering and can have a substantial negative impact on the psychological well-being of patients and reduce quality of life. Vitiligo can lead to a poor body image, causing individuals to feel embarrassed or anxious about their skin and withdraw from social activities.

Aside from ultraviolet light, there are no FDA-approved treatments for vitiligo. As such there is a significant unmet need for patients who have vitiligo.