The attentive focus on T cell-mediated autoimmune pathogenesis of psoriasis, lichen planus and vitiligo

Scand J Immunol. 2021 Apr;93(4):e13000. doi: 10.1111/sji.13000. Epub 2020 Nov 25.

Abstract

T cell-mediated autoimmune skin diseases develop as a result of the aberrant immune response to the skin cells with T cells playing a central role. These chronic inflammatory skin diseases encompass various types including psoriasis, lichen planus and vitiligo. These diseases show similarities in their immune-pathophysiology. In the last decade, immunomodulating agents have been very successful in the management of these diseases thanks to a better understanding of the pathophysiology. In this review, we will discuss the immunopathogenic mechanisms and highlight the role of T lymphocytes in psoriasis, lichen planus and vitiligo. This study could provide new insights into a better understanding of targeted therapeutic pathways and biological therapies.

Keywords: Lichen planus; T cells; biologics; psoriasis; vitiligo.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Lichen Planus / immunology*
  • Psoriasis / immunology*
  • Skin / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • Vitiligo / immunology*