Vitiligo
Book Appointment
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is an acquired, chronic, depigmenting disorder of the skin, in which pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) that determine the color of skin, hair, and eyes are progressively lost. It appears as milky-white patches of skin (leukoderma) and can be cosmetically very disabling, particularly in people with dark skin.
What causes vitiligo?
Vitiligo is due to the loss or destruction of melanocytes (melanin-producing cells).
Genetic factors appear to contribute to 80% of vitiligo risk, whilst environmental factors account for 20%. Many genetic loci have been identified, all related to the immune system, except for TYR which encodes tyrosinase, a key enzyme in melanin production and a major autoantigen in vitiligo.
The convergence or integrated theory combines immunological, biochemical, oxidative, and environmental mechanisms that work jointly in those with a genetic susceptibility is widely accepted.
This could be explained through three phases:
- Initial phase: less adhesive melanocytes are prone to internal and external oxidative stresses, leading to the production of more toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS).
- Progression phase: an imbalance between ROS and antioxidants will activate the adaptive immune system bridged by the innate immune system.
- Maintenance phase: established lesions are maintained by resident melanocyte reactive T-cells (TRM cells), through the IL15-dependent pathway. These TRM cells may be responsible for what is called an ‘autoimmune memory’, in which relapses occur mostly at the same exact site of previous lesions.
Treatment of vitiligo depends on the severity and surface area of the body involved. Treatment targets on regulating the T-cell activity and stimulation of melanocytes in the patches. Topical treatments include topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, peptide solutions, PUVA, phototherapy etc. Resistant patches of vitiligo may require surgical therapy.
Our Most Popular Services
Our mission is to deliver the best in class, genuine and affordable dermatology care for the entire family delivered in the most personalized fashion using world-class technology.