Is Vitiligo Inherited?
Even though these terms are frequently used interchangeably, there is a slight distinction between these that identify the type of disease. Genetic diseases are those that result from a genetic mutation in the organism or a specific gene defect or group of gene defects. Therefore, hereditary diseases are those that are transmitted to each individual through their genetic composition. Every individual’s genetic composition results in the development of several proteins that cause genetic and physical changes. Thus, various mutations in genes result in distinct instructions and, consequently, slightly distinct proteins.
Additionally, these resulting proteins appear and behave differently in each individual, and only a few may affect the melanocytes, thereby causing vitiligo. However, there is no credible evidence as to what causes vitiligo or how it manifests in any age or gender. Consequently, it has been stated that vitiligo “runs in families,” indicating that it has a genetic basis; however, the inherited disease is multifactorial and consists of the interaction between multiple genes and multiple other causes. Therefore, it cannot be stated with absolute certainty whether a person with a family history of vitiligo will develop the condition or not.
Since everything revolves around a person’s genetic makeup, it is safe to say that it is a genetic phenomenon that is exacerbated by stress, environmental factors, hormonal changes, UV rays, chemical exposure, a history of having other autoimmune diseases, etc. Researchers do not yet know if there is a unique genetic sequence or gene that no one else possesses. Varieties of vitiligo are caused solely by distinct mutations of the same genes.
Therefore, genes play a significant role in causing this disease, as autoimmune diseases have an effect on mutations in genes and there is a hereditary component, but it is a complicated disease that does not support the regular pattern of hereditary transmission through genes compelledly. Occasionally, vitiligo is inherited, but the inheritance pattern is complicated due to the multiple causative factors involved. Almost one-fifth of the affected population has at least one close relative with the disease. Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease and a skin condition characterized by the appearance of white patches on the skin.
Initially, vitiligo patches typically appear on the forearms, face, ankles, and hands. As a result, as the disease progresses, it may disseminate to other, larger areas. Genetics also plays an important role in the progression of vitiligo, according to research. The conclusion was not reached until the 1950s, when two medical researchers reported that vitiligo was prevalent in eight families. The condition is considered a “complex inheritance,” indicating that genetics play a role. This means that two or more abnormal genes are implicated in such diseases, whereas each abnormal gene is responsible for hereditary conditions. (10)
