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   Vitiligo  Causes   Vitiligo is a disease of which the exact cause is not fully understood. However, there is increasing understanding about the processes involved in the development of Vitiligo. In most cases there are multiple causes responsible for vitiligo. However, there are theories suggesting a. Autoimmune links: The cells fighting among themselves leading to destruction of the melanin, is one of the reasons. There are other immunological factors as well. One of the studies has suggested role of some neuropeptide (NYP) which may damage melanin. Such neuropeptide may be released in response to skin injury or emotional stress; again suggesting a combination of causative factors. b. Hormonal connections: Affection of certain hormones such as Thyroid hormones or Melanocyte Stimulating hormone may be responsible for vitiligo. c. Genetic tendencies d. Neural theory e. Autocytotoxic theory
As per this theory, there is
self-destruction of melanocytes and hence the melanin. This could be a result of
genetic, immunological, neural or stress factors.  Vitiligo and Hypothyroidism (Under active thyroid): Research suggests that Vitiligo and Hypothyroidism (Under active thyroid) often are predisposed by the same gene (NALP1 gene). All patients of Vitiligo are suggested to get Thyroid profile done every six months. Thyroid profile entails blood sample study for T3, T4 and TSH (Thyroid stimulating hormone) hormones at a small cost. Other factors: The precipitating factors have been identified as due to pressure of tight clothes (such as on the waist) or certain occupational hazards such as wearing certain rubber hand gloves. Long term intake of certain drugs is found to produce this pigment disorder. In many cases, especially in children, we often have no clue why one develops vitiligo. All said and done, there is definitely an abnormal process of melanocyte destruction and defective melanocyte formation, governed by known or unknown factors. It may be noted that some of the above remarks are based on our study of over 4500 cases and they may not be found in the standard dermatological text books. We are still learning and exploring vitiligo, like many other disease. Like many disease conditions, the exact causation yet remains a mystery! Lichen Planus, Psoriasis and vitiligo: Some cases of Lichen Planus and Psoriasis may be observed to be associated with vitiligo, on the same location. In some cases Psoriasis or Lichen Planus may be a cause of loss of pigment, leading to vitiligo, which is relatively more difficult to treat, as per our experience at Life Force. Here you can see a couple of illustrative cases of concomitant existence of these disease conditions.
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