Genetic Aspects of Vitiligo Disease and its Prevalence

Abstract

Vitiligo is the most common depigmentation disorder where the selective destruction of functioning melanocytes causes depigmentation of the skin, hair and mucosal surfaces. It affects approximately 0.5% to 1% of the population, with an average age of onset at about 24 years, its prevalence appears to be equal between men and women and there is no difference in the rate of occurrence according to skin type or race. Several etiological factors have been suggested for which the most compelling evidence involves a combination of environmental, genetic and immunological factors interacting to contribute to autoimmune melanocyte destruction.