LEUKODERMA Meaning and
Definition
-
Leukoderma is a medical condition characterized by the depigmentation of patches of skin, resulting in the appearance of white or lighter-colored patches in contrast to the surrounding normal skin color. The term "leukoderma" is derived from the Greek words "leuko" meaning white and "derma" meaning skin. This condition is commonly associated with loss or absence of melanin, the pigment responsible for determining skin color.
Leukoderma can be classified into different types based on its cause, such as vitiligo, post-inflammatory hypopigmentation, and piebaldism. Vitiligo is the most common form of leukoderma, where the depigmented patches are typically symmetrical and can occur on any part of the body. Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation, on the other hand, refers to the loss of pigmentation following skin inflammation or injury. Piebaldism is a congenital disorder characterized by the presence of a white forelock of hair and patches of depigmented skin on the face and body.
The exact causes of leukoderma are not fully understood, although both genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Autoimmune mechanisms, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes, are considered significant in certain cases. In other instances, genetic mutations or triggers like sunburn, trauma, or certain chemicals can lead to the development of leukoderma.
Treatment options for leukoderma aim to restore color to the depigmented areas and can include topical steroid creams, phototherapy, depigmentation, or surgical interventions like skin grafting. Overall, the management of leukoderma requires a comprehensive approach that considers the individual's medical history, specific subtype of leukoderma, and the impact on their quality of life.
Common Misspellings for LEUKODERMA
- keukoderma
- peukoderma
- oeukoderma
- lwukoderma
- lsukoderma
- ldukoderma
- lrukoderma
- l4ukoderma
- l3ukoderma
- leykoderma
- lehkoderma
- lejkoderma
- leikoderma
- le8koderma
- le7koderma
- leujoderma
- leumoderma
- leuloderma
- leuooderma
- leukodermma
Etymology of LEUKODERMA
The word "leukoderma" is derived from two Greek roots: "leuko" meaning "white" and "derma" meaning "skin". Therefore, "leukoderma" refers to a condition characterized by areas of abnormal white patches on the skin.
Similar spelling words for LEUKODERMA
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
