Vitiligo and immune signaling

Understand the connection

Vitiligo involves loss of pigment-producing melanocytes in areas of the skin. Immune signals can help recruit and maintain cells that participate in this process.

Follow the pathway

Dr. Purser follows the IFN-gamma pathway through CXCL9 and CXCL10, which guide immune cells, and IL-15, which helps sustain memory T cells. He discusses JAK signaling and why recurrence can involve immune memory.

Bring these questions to your visit

Ask which treatments suit the distribution and activity of the skin changes and what response timeline is realistic. Discuss light-based or topical options with a dermatology clinician rather than choosing care from one cytokine result.