What is the Difference Between Leucoderma and Albinism?

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Leucoderma and albinism are both skin conditions affecting the pigmentation of the body, but they have different causes and characteristics. Here are the main differences between the two:

  • Leucoderma (also known as vitiligo) is considered to be an autoimmune disease, where the immune system attacks its own cells, specifically the pigment-producing melanocytes. This results in patches of white-colored skin that have lost their pigment, called melanin. Vitiligo can be reversible by turning on melanocytes and controlling resistant assault.
  • Albinism is a genetic disorder caused by the absence of an enzyme that produces melanin, resulting in a complete lack of pigmentation in the skin, hair, or eyes. This occurs because a person has inherited two mutated copies of one of seven oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) genes, which are responsible for melanin production. Albinism is irreversible and cannot be cured.

In summary, leucoderma is an autoimmune disease that causes patches of skin to lose pigmentation, while albinism is a genetic disorder that results in a complete lack of pigmentation in various parts of the body. The two conditions have different causes and treatments, with leucoderma potentially being reversible and albinism being irreversible.

Comparative Table: Leucoderma vs Albinism

Here is a table comparing the differences between leucoderma and albinism:

Feature Leucoderma Albinism
Description A disorder that causes skin pigmentation loss primarily due to autoimmunity A disorder that causes skin pigmentation loss primarily due to genetic mutations
Causes Autoimmune disorders like Addison's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, anemia, thyroid disorders, psoriasis, lupus, and type 1 diabetes Genetic mutations
Diagnosis Visual analysis and family history Medical history and physical examination
Treatment Medications, light therapy, and depigmentation therapy No specific treatment, but sunscreen, protective clothing, UV-blocking sunglasses, and addressing social and emotional issues are recommended
Affected Areas Patches of skin that lose their normal color Patches of skin or hair that lose their normal color
Prevalence Not specified 1 in 18,000 to 20,000 people worldwide

Leucoderma is a disorder that causes skin pigmentation loss primarily due to autoimmunity, while albinism causes skin pigmentation loss primarily due to genetic mutations.