From Pathogenesis to Future Cure: A Complete Review of Vitiligo and Its Recent Advances

Grace Rajanala Chelsy; Naga Visalakshi Kaseena; Narendra Kumar Potluri; Suneetha A

doi:10.70604/learnint.v2i2.69

Authors

Chelsy Grace Rajanala KVSR Siddartha College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Kaseena Naga Visalakshi KVSR Siddartha College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Potluri Narendra Kumar KVSR Siddartha College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India.
A. Suneetha KVSR Siddartha College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Abstract

Vitiligo is a chronic, acquired skin disorder marked by progressive depigmentation resulting from the selective loss of melanocytes. Though non-life-threatening, it poses significant psychosocial challenges due to its visible impact, particularly in darker-skinned populations. The etiology is multifactorial, with contributions from genetic predisposition, autoimmunity, oxidative stress, and environmental triggers. Vitiligo is now considered a model autoimmune disorder due to its well-characterized immunopathogenesis involving CD8⁺ T cells, cytokines like IFN-γ, IL-15, and TRM cell persistence. Clinical classification into segmental and non-segmental types, along with diagnostic tools such as Wood’s lamp examination, dermoscopy, and scoring systems like VASI and VIDA, aids in tailored management. Therapeutic approaches range from topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors to phototherapy (NB-UVB, PUVA) and systemic immunosuppressants. Surgical techniques like melanocyte transplantation offer hope for stable vitiligo. Recent advances emphasize targeted immunotherapies (e.g., JAK inhibitors, IL-15 blockade), regenerative strategies using stem cells and melanocyte precursors, and novel delivery systems like nanocarriers and microneedles. Gene therapy and Wnt/β-catenin pathway modulation represent promising futuristic approaches. Preventive strategies include minimizing trauma (Koebner phenomenon), managing psychological stress, antioxidant support, and early intervention. This review integrates classical knowledge with cutting-edge developments, offering a comprehensive perspective on vitiligo. It emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary and patient-centric approach that combines clinical, psychosocial, and technological strategies. As research deepens, the path toward a potential cure becomes more tangible, supported by innovations in immunology and molecular medicine.

Keywords:

Vitiligo, Melanocyte destruction, Autoimmunity, Oxidative stress, Phototherapy, JAK inhibitors, Stem cell therapy, Gene therapy, Clinical classification, Immunomodulation

DOI

https://doi.org/10.70604/learnint.v2i2.69

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From Pathogenesis to Future Cure: A Complete Review of Vitiligo and Its Recent Advances

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