Vitiligo: Q&A
Ask a QuestionIs Skin Cancer Risk Increased by Vitiligo?
Do people with vitiligo have increased skin cancer risk? If you have it, what should I use for prevention? Is there a special product or treatment worth using?
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2 Doctor Answers |
Asked by
Eva S
in Seattle, WA
+2
Melanoma, Yes; Non-Melanoma skin cancers, probably
People with vitiligo lack pigment in their vitiligo patches. This, of course, makes them susceptible to sunburns. Additionally,there does appear to be an increased risk of melanoma in patients with vitiligo. However, the evidence, though there, has not been as strong for non-melanoma skin cancer ( basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas).
Last year at the American Academy of Dermatology meeting, there was a poster from Henry Ford Hospital showing there was an increased incidence of...
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+1
Skin cancer risk and vitiligo
There is an association between vitiligo and the most aggressive form of skin cancer, melanoma. The connection between vitiligo and the other major forms of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma) is somewhat controversial. Individuals with vitiligo and with fair skin in general should exercise extra precautions when it comes to sun protection. Daily application of a moisturizer with a broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater to sun exposed areas is recommended....
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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.
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