Vitiligo and Alopecia Areata: Apples and Oranges?

    October 2013 in “ Experimental Dermatology ”
    John E. Harris
    TLDR Vitiligo and alopecia areata may have similar causes despite their differences.
    Vitiligo and alopecia areata were both common autoimmune skin diseases, with vitiligo causing white patches due to melanocyte destruction and alopecia areata leading to patchy hair loss, primarily on the scalp. Despite their apparent differences in affected cell types and treatment methods, they shared similarities in immune cell populations, cytokines, genetic risk factors, and familial associations, suggesting a similar pathogenesis. Understanding these similarities and differences was crucial for advancing research into their pathogenesis and developing new treatments.
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