Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by loss of skin pigmentation. It affects 0.5-4% of the global population. While both genetic and environmental factors are involved in vitiligo, research increasingly points to an autoimmune or oxidative stress pathogenesis, where immune attacks or high levels of reactive oxygen species damage melanocytes. Studies show functional alterations in vitiligo skin like increased pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreased growth factors, which may induce keratinocyte and melanocyte apoptosis. Ongoing research is investigating the role of antioxidants in protecting keratinocytes from oxidative stress and improving vitiligo.

1. Vitiligo: epidemiology and pathophysiology Torello Lotti University Unit of Dermatology - University of Florence School of Medicine Florence, Italy

10. Altered antioxidant and scavenger mechanism Increased activity of superoxide dismutase High levels of epidermic 7-BH 4 and H 2 O 2 Inhibition of enzyme function (phenylalanine-hydroxilase and tyrosinase) and abnormal expression of Tyrosinase Related Protein-1 (TRP-1).  impaired melanine synthesis Metabolic pathogenesis

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