Etiopathogenesis and Emerging Methods for Treatment of Vitiligo

Vitiligo is an acquired chronic depigmenting disorder of skin. It is mostly asymptomatic and characterized by amelanotic macules and patches that affects 0.5% to 2% of the world's population. The etiology of vitiligo has not been clearly elucidated and multiple theories have been proposed regarding the causes of the disorder. Among the most prevalent theories, the genetic predisposition, oxidative stress theory, promotion of cellular stress and pathologic influence of lymphocytes T have been highlighted. As a result of increases in in-depth knowledge concerning the pathogenetic processes in vitiligo, we review the most recent information concerning its etiopathogenesis and treatment methods including topical and oral Janus kinase inhibitors, prostaglandins and their analogues, namely afamelanotide, Wnt/beta-catenin-signaling agonists and cell-based therapies. Topical ruxolitinib has been registered for vitiligo treatment, whereas other agents as oral ritlecitinib, afamelanotide and latanoprost have been studied in ongoing clinical trials. New highly effective therapeutic strategies may be developed thanks to molecular and genetic studies.

Automated summary

Vitiligo is a chronic depigmenting disorder of the skin that affects 0.5% to 2% of the world's population. The exact cause of vitiligo is unknown, but several theories have been proposed, including genetic predisposition, oxidative stress, cellular stress, and the impact of T lymphocytes. Recent research has focused on the etiopathogenesis and treatment methods, such as Janus kinase inhibitors, prostaglandins, afamelanotide, Wnt/beta-catenin-signaling agonists, and cell-based therapies. While topical ruxolitinib has been approved for treatment, ongoing clinical trials are investigating the efficacy of oral ritlecitinib, afamelanotide, and latanoprost. Molecular and genetic studies hold promise for the development of highly effective therapeutic strategies.