Background: Vitiligo is a common dermatological condition characterized by the presence of acquired, amelanotic, non-scaly, chalky-white macules with distinct margins on the skin. It is a multifactorial disorder involving the complex interplay of genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors. Vitiligo can have a significant impact on the quality of life of affected individuals due to its visible nature and the associated psychosocial implications. Objectives: This review article aims to provide an overview of vitiligo, including its epidemiology, etiology, clinical features, and current understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The objectives are to explore the prevalence and distribution of vitiligo worldwide, discuss the potential causes and risk factors, and highlight the diverse clinical presentations observed in different subtypes of vitiligo. Conclusions: Vitiligo is a complex and heterogeneous disorder with a wide range of clinical manifestations. Although the exact etiology remains elusive, advancements in research have shed light on the involvement of immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, and genetic predisposition in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Diagnosis of vitiligo is primarily clinical, based on characteristic depigmented macules, while further investigations may be warranted to exclude other conditions. Management of vitiligo involves a multidisciplinary approach, including topical therapies, phototherapy, surgical interventions, and psychological support. While repigmentation outcomes vary, advancements in targeted therapies and immunomodulatory agents hold promise for future treatment strategies.
Background: Vitiligo is a common dermatological condition characterized by the presence of acquired, amelanotic, non-scaly, chalky-white macules with distinct margins on the skin. It is a multifactorial disorder involving the complex interplay of genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors. Vitiligo can have a significant impact on the quality of life of affected individuals due to its visible nature and the associated psychosocial implications. Objectives: This review article aims to provide an overview of vitiligo, including its epidemiology, etiology, clinical features, and current understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The objectives are to explore the prevalence and distribution of vitiligo worldwide, discuss the potential causes and risk factors, and highlight the diverse clinical presentations observed in different subtypes of vitiligo. Conclusions: Vitiligo is a complex and heterogeneous disorder with a wide range of clinical manifestations. Although the exact etiology remains elusive, advancements in research have shed light on the involvement of immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, and genetic predisposition in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Diagnosis of vitiligo is primarily clinical, based on characteristic depigmented macules, while further investigations may be warranted to exclude other conditions. Management of vitiligo involves a multidisciplinary approach, including topical therapies, phototherapy, surgical interventions, and psychological support. While repigmentation outcomes vary, advancements in targeted therapies and immunomodulatory agents hold promise for future treatment strategies.