In non-segmental vitiligo, the autoimmune hypothesis implicates cytotoxic CD8+ T cells targeting melanocytes. A serum biomarker that reflects melanocyte destruction and correlates with disease activity is:

• A Anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies
• B Elevated CXCL10 (IP-10, IFN-γ-inducible chemokine) ✓
• C Anti-desmoglein-3 antibodies
• D Serum IgE levels

Explanation

CXCL10 (IP-10, interferon-gamma-inducible protein-10) is an IFN-γ-inducible chemokine elevated in the serum and skin of active vitiligo patients. It reflects CD8+ T-cell infiltration and IFN-γ/JAK-STAT signalling driving melanocyte destruction—the same pathway targeted by JAK inhibitors (ruxolitinib topical, baricitinib). Elevated serum CXCL10 correlates with disease activity and response to treatment. Anti-TPO antibodies indicate associated autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's), common in vitiligo patients, but are not specific biomarkers of vitiligo activity.

Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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