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Feature of Mononuclear Hugging in Vitiligo.
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
|March 8, 2017
Summary
Vitiligo involves mononuclear cells, primarily lymphocytes, surrounding depigmented skin areas. These cells appear to cause melanocyte destruction, suggesting vitiligo may be an autoimmune disorder.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Vitiligo is a condition characterized by depigmented macules.
- The underlying mechanisms of melanocyte loss in vitiligo are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the histomorphological features at the border of progressive vitiligo lesions.
- To elucidate the cellular interactions involved in melanocyte loss.
Main Methods:
- Histomorphological examination of 48 vitiligo cases.
- Serial section analysis of lesional borders.
Main Results:
- Mononuclear cell infiltration, predominantly small lymphocytes, observed at the dermoepidermal junction and intraepidermally at the lesion borders.
- Selective absence of melanocytes and melanin in the basal layer of the epidermis at sites of mononuclear cell aggregation.
- These findings suggest mononuclear cells are associated with melanocyte destruction.
Conclusions:
- Vitiligo may involve an autoimmune process mediated by lymphocytes.
- The observed mononuclear cell activity suggests a role in the selective destruction of melanocytes.
- Vitiligo could be a slow-reacting autoimmune disorder of the delayed hypersensitivity type.
