Causes of Vitiligo

Dec 10, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I accidentally noticed white patches on a part of my body. What are the causes of white patches?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin

The causes of white patches are diverse, mainly including the following points:

1. Genetic factors:白斑 is somewhat related to heredity. Approximately 2.5%-5% of白癜风 cases are due to genetic factors. Recent studies further indicate that白癜风 may be a polygenic hereditary disease, with 25%-30% of patients having a familial occurrence.

2. Immune system abnormalities: Abnormalities in the immune system may lead to autoimmune attacks on melanocytes, damaging them and subsequently causing white patches. This autoimmune response may also be associated with other autoimmune diseases such as thyroid disorders and pernicious anemia.

3. Psychological stress: Prolonged psychological stress may also lead to immune system dysfunction, thereby triggering white patches.

4. Malnutrition: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and trace elements, such as tyrosine and copper ions, may also result in the appearance of white patches on the skin.

5. Chemical irritation: Long-term exposure to certain chemical substances, such as phenols and catecholamine compounds, may damage melanocytes, leading to the formation of white patches.

In addition, environmental factors such as exposure to chemicals and ultraviolet radiation may also trigger or exacerbate the condition. Therefore, treating白癜风 requires a comprehensive consideration of multiple factors and the adoption of individualized treatment strategies.