What Causes Vitiligo

Vitiligo occurs when melanin-forming cells (melanocytes) die or stop producing melanin — the pigment that gives your skin, hair and eyes color. The involved patches of skin become lighter or white. Doctors don't know why the cells fail or die. It may be related to:

• An autoimmune disorder — the patient's immune system becomes overactive and destroys the melanocytes
• Genetic oxidative stress imbalance
• A stressful event
• Harm to the skin due to a critical sunburn or cut
• Exposure to some chemicals

Vitiligo affects people of all skin types, but it may be more noticeable in people with darker skin. The condition is not life-threatening or contagious. It can be stressful or make you feel bad about yourself. Treatment for vitiligo may restore color to the affected skin, but it doesn't prevent continued loss of skin color or a recurrence.

Autoimmune Theory

The most widely accepted theory is that vitiligo is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the melanocytes in the skin. Some people with vitiligo also have other autoimmune diseases like thyroid disorders, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.

Genetic Factors

Vitiligo may be hereditary. Studies have found that about 30% of vitiligo cases run in families. Several genes have been identified that may be associated with a higher risk of developing vitiligo, though no single gene determines whether someone will get it.

Neurological Causes

Some researchers believe that a neurochemical substance may destroy melanocytes. This theory is supported by segmental vitiligo, which affects only one side of the body and tends to follow a nerve pathway.

Oxidative Stress

Excess reactive oxygen species (free radicals) can damage melanocytes. People with vitiligo often show signs of increased oxidative stress in affected skin areas, which may contribute to melanocyte destruction.