European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Vitiligo is characterized by depigmentation and skin patches. It occurs in localized areas and in many cases, it occurs in a generalized form. It is known to affect self-esteem and has a great impact on the quality of life. The present study aimed to find the frequency and type of psychiatric illness. In addition, this study also aims to correlate stressful life events, and hostility with the severity and duration of vitiligo, as well as with the comorbid psychiatric disorder.
Methods: The demographic and socio-economic profiles of all the cases were recorded. A detailed history of the disease was obtained using a pretested and structured proforma. A detailed physical examination including neurological evaluation and examination of mental status with help of a psychiatrist was done. VASI-Vitiligo area and severity Index to calculate clinical severity of Vitiligo. The subjects were administered the MINI International Neuropsychiatric interview and the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale.
Results: In the study, 70% of the sample had Non-segmental (Generalized) vitiligo and 30% localized/segmental type. The duration of illness was < 5 years in 80% of patients, 6-12 years in 12% of patients, and in 8%, it was > 13 years. The common type was at 37.5% stationary at 32.5% Remission and exacerbation at 17.5% and the Progressive type was in the least cases at 12.5% cases. In this study out of n=28(70%), cases had some form of psychiatric illness and n=12(30%) cases were without any psychiatric illnesses. Among the cases with psychiatric illnesses, it was found that major depressive disorder was in 30% of cases followed by a generalized anxiety disorder in 12.5% of cases and dysthymic disorder, social phobia, mixed anxiety, and depressive disorder in 7.5%.
Conclusion: Longer duration of vitiligo was associated with more severity of the disease and psychiatric manifestations. Based on the results of our study, people with vitiligo have a significant chance of developing psychiatric manifestations, and their morbidity may rise if emotional issues are not appropriately handled. Early diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric manifestations may improve the course of the vitiligo illness as well as the general quality of life.