In this article, literature has been reviewed about the sociodemographical, clinical features, psychological impact and treatment in a psychocutaneous disorder, vitiligo. The skin and psyche share embryonic origins so psychological factors may affect the onset and progression of various skin conditions. Vitiligo is a common, acquired and depigmentating disorder which has a prevalence 1-4 % in general population. It is also named as White Spot Disease, leucoderma and white leprosis. Although patogenesis of vitiligo is not accurately known, otoimmune, neural and self-destruction theories have been proposed. Currently, the most valid theory is self-destruction of melanocytes. In the terminal phase of vitiligo, the self-destruction of rnelanocytes occurs. Melanogenesis disregulation which is caused by the activation of melanocyte receptors leads to this destruction. Severe sun burns, mycotic and bacterial infections, repeated trauma and emotional stress have been emphasized as precipitating factors in vitiligo. Vitiligo lesions may lead to the feeling of shame, rage, anxiety, frustration, social isolation, disappointment, stigmatization and patients experience troubles in social, professional and school life, problematic relations with opposite sex and sexual problems. Psychotropic medications and psychotherapy together with dermatological therapy in the treatment of vitiligo patients and the collaboration of dermatologists and psychiatrists are crucial.
Key words: Vitiligo, psychocutaneous disease, stress, psychiatry, dermatology
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