Acquired leucoderma is a skin condition characterized by loss of pigmentation in patches. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. The first syllable "ac-" is pronounced as /əˈkwaɪəd/, followed by "quired" pronounced as /kwɪərd/. The third syllable "leuco-" is pronounced as /luːkə/, with the stress on the second syllable. The last syllable "derma" is pronounced as /ˈdɜrmə/. Together, the word is pronounced as /əˈkwaɪəd ˈluːkədɜrmə/.
Acquired leucoderma is a medical condition characterized by the loss of pigment in certain areas of the skin. Also known as acquired vitiligo, it is a non-contagious disorder that causes the skin to develop white patches due to the destruction of melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives the skin its color.
This condition often begins with the appearance of small, pale spots that gradually increase in size and may spread throughout the body. The exact cause of acquired leucoderma is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own melanocytes. Other factors such as genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and certain medical conditions may also contribute to the development of acquired leucoderma.
Acquired leucoderma typically does not cause any physical discomfort, but the cosmetic issues it presents can have a significant impact on an individual's self-esteem and quality of life. Treatment options for acquired leucoderma include topical corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and phototherapy. These interventions aim to slow down the progression of the condition, promote repigmentation, and even out the skin tone. However, treatment outcomes can vary, and it is important to consult with a dermatologist for personalized management and support. Moreover, individuals with acquired leucoderma may benefit from psychological and emotional support to cope with the challenges and impact on their self-image.
Vitiligo.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "acquired leucoderma" is a medical term comprising of two components.
1. Acquired: The term "acquired" comes from the Latin word "acquirere", which means "to gain". In the context of medicine, "acquired" indicates a condition or disease that is not present at birth but is acquired or developed later in life.
2. Leucoderma: The word "leucoderma" is derived from two Greek words, "leukos" meaning "white" and "derma" meaning "skin". Leucoderma is a condition characterized by the loss of skin pigmentation, leading to white patches or depigmentation on the skin. It is more commonly known as vitiligo.
When combined, "acquired leucoderma" refers to leucoderma/vitiligo that is acquired later in life, rather than being present from birth.