Reduced serum paraoxonase-1 levels in vitiligo: further evidence of oxidative stress

Vitiligo is a common disorder that results in depigmented areas of the skin. The pathogenesis of the disease remains unclear, but oxidative stress is one suggested cause. Oxidative stress may be induced by increasing the generation of reactive oxygen species and other free radicals. The generation of reactive oxygen species is known to be associated with a decrease in antioxidant levels. This study examined oxidative stress index in active lesions of generalized vitiligo patients. We analysed serum levels of paraoxonase 1, arylesterase, catalase, ceruloplasmin, total antioxidant capacity, and oxidative stress index in patients with active lesions of generalized vitiligo, as well as in matched, healthy controls. Serum oxidants and oxidative stress indexes were higher, and serum antioxidants were lower, in vitiligo patients compared with healthy controls. Our findings suggest that oxidative stress may play an important role in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Paraoxonase 1 can be used as an indicator in determining oxidative stress existent in the pathogenesis of vitiligo diseases.