Vitiligo and Thyroid Autoimmunity

Vitiligo is an acquired skin disorder characterized by depigmented maculae resulting from a reduction
or the number and function of melanocytes. It is characterized by macular depigmentation of varying
sizes or shapes with a tendency to progress. The etiopathogenesis of the disease is still unclear, but
there is evidence that autoimmunity and endocrine dysfunction may be involved. Vitiligo has been
reported in association with numerous endocrine disorders. One of the main association is with
thyroid abnormalities. Thyroid autoimmunity is the most prevalent autoimmune condition in the
general population, and is also associated with various skin diseases. The mechanisms by which
these diseases develop are unknown, although it is likely that diseases occur in genetically
susceptible individuals exposed to a permissive environment.
This chapter is an attempt to update the current knowledge about the relationship between vitiligo and
thyroid autoimmunity. Although cutaneous manifestation of autoimmune thyroid diseases are well
described, a better understanding of these processes is needed. It is a multidisciplinary problem
requiring cooperation of specialist in different fields of medicine. Both dermatologist and
endocrinologists have to inquire their patients about the family history of autoimmune diseases and to
look for associated disorders.