Vitiligo: Pathogenesis, clinical presentations and types of treatment

Abstract

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder characterised by the loss of melanocytes, leading to depigmented patches on the skin. Its pathogenesis involves both intrinsic melanocyte defects and immune responses targeting melanocytes. A key factor in vitiligo is an imbalance of cytokines, favoring pro-inflammatory responses (Th1/Th17) over anti-inflammatory ones (Th2/Treg). Elevated cytokine levels such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-? contribute to melanocyte destruction. Cytotoxic CD8+ T cells are also included in this process. Additionally, regulatory T cells (Tregs), which typically help maintain tolerance to melanocytes, are reduced in vitiligo patients, further promoting autoimmune reactions. These findings suggest that cytokine-targeted therapies could offer new treatment options for vitiligo.