What are the causes of vitiligo in children?

Sep 06, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Children developing vitiligo may be caused by factors such as genetic predisposition, emotional stress, endocrine disorders, chronic viral infections, and hyperthyroidism. To prevent health problems in children, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, ensure adequate sleep, reduce psychological stress, enhance immune function, and create a healthy living environment.

In general, childhood vitiligo may be caused by genetic predisposition, mental stress, endocrine disorders, chronic viral infections, hyperthyroidism, and other factors. If the above conditions occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Genetic Predisposition

Vitiligo has a certain genetic tendency. If there is a family history of vitiligo, the risk of children developing the condition may increase. Regular health check-ups and early intervention are recommended in daily life.

2. Mental Stress

Children experiencing intense psychological stimuli or prolonged high-pressure states may develop vitiligo. Mental stress can lead to endocrine system disturbances, affect the normal function of melanocytes, promote pigment loss, and thus cause the aforementioned symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be used in daily life to help adjust these conditions.

3. Endocrine Disorders

Fluctuations in growth hormone and sex hormone levels may lead to endocrine imbalances. During periods of growth and development, hormonal fluctuations in children may impair melanocyte function, resulting in pigment loss and the appearance of the above symptoms. This may be accompanied by accelerated height growth and premature development of secondary sexual characteristics. Treatment may include medications such as vitamin B6 tablets, oryzanol tablets, and Danzhi Xiaoyao Pills, as directed by a physician.

4. Chronic Viral Infection

Chronic viral infections are caused by viruses from the lentivirus family, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). After infection, the immune system may mistakenly damage melanocytes while clearing the virus, leading to pigment loss and the development of vitiligo. Symptoms may include fever and cough. Treatment may involve medications such as Pudilan Anti-inflammatory Oral Liquid, Shuanghuanglian Oral Liquid, and Xiao'er Chiqiao Qingre Granules under medical guidance.

5. Hyperthyroidism

This condition may result from autoimmune factors, diet, or heredity. The immune system mistakenly identifies melanocytes as foreign invaders, produces antibodies that attack them, causing melanocyte death or functional impairment, thereby triggering vitiligo. Symptoms may include palpitations and hand tremors. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, and levothyroxine sodium tablets.

To prevent health problems in children, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, ensure adequate sleep, reduce mental stress, enhance immune function, and create a healthy living environment.

Related Articles

View All