HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Is Vitiligo Hereditary?

Posted on Mon, 6 Feb 2017

Question: There is one skin disease in which a person have white patches on his whole body. Slowly slowly it increases and complete body skin becomes white. According to Google this disease is called as Vitiligo.
My question is if father is suffering from this disease then what are the chances that his child will also suffer from this??
Can this get transferred hereditaryly?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (31 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It can be transmitted genetically

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the query.
Your description matches with vitiligo.
There are chances of heridity but it is less than 1%.
The disease does not spread by touching.
If possible upload a photograph of the involved area.
This will help me in giving a closer diagnosis and better way of management.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (5 hours later)

Hi Sir,

Thanks for the information.
For your further reference I have uploaded the image. Please check and update about the same.
Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (24 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Vitiligo

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the photograph.
Yes it is vitiligo.
Just relax, though being hereditary the chance of transmission is less.
You don't need to worry much.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (13 hours later)

Hi,

Thanks for the info.
Just last question..Actually I have seen a boy for my daughter's marriage. His father is suffering from this disease. So I was confused whether I should consider this disease or not while selecting the boy. I just want your suggestion whether I should go ahead and select the boy and just ignore his father's disease? I am still a bit confused.

Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (16 hours later)

Brief Answer:
details below

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the follow up.

The disease can appear at any age but in hereditary cases it generally appears at a younger age.
If possible you can enquire with the boy if he has developed any lesions.

Even if he develops lesions at a later age, it can be treated with medication or surgery.

In my opinion, if you feel that the match is very good you can go ahead with the marriage.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee