Vitiligo: Clinical and Laboratory Characteristics in 573 Saudi Patients
December 2024
in “
Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology
”
TLDR Vitiligo often starts young, is linked to family history and stress, and requires comprehensive care including psychological support.
This study analyzed 573 Saudi patients with vitiligo, revealing a prevalence of 0.235% among a larger patient population. Nearly half of the cases began before age 20, with 30% starting before age 12. A family history of vitiligo was noted in 42.15% of patients, and stress was a common trigger. Most patients (90%) had nonsegmental vitiligo, with generalized vitiligo being the most common type. Autoimmune comorbidities were present in 41% of patients, including allergic rhinitis, hypothyroidism, and asthma. Laboratory findings indicated low vitamin D in 87% and elevated thyroid antibodies in over 20% of patients. The study underscores the psychosocial impact of vitiligo and the need for comprehensive management, including psychological support and routine screening for comorbidities.