Does psychological stress trigger or exacerbate vitiligo: More data are needed

Abstract

Background: Vitiligo is a common disorder characterized by depigmentation due to autoimmune destruction of melanocytes. The role of psychological stress in causing vitiligo is not well characterized. Purpose: This article aims at reviewing the role of stress in triggering and/or exacerbating vitiligo. Methods: Seven relevant studies were found in the literature search. Results: Most of the studies support the theory that stressful life events may trigger the onset or the progression of vitiligo. Conclusion: Studies depended mainly on retrospective reporting of stressful events could be a major source of bias.