ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Vitiligo is an acquired, idiopathic, generally progressive pigmentation disorder of an unknown etiology. Vitiligo usually begins during childhood or adolescence. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and demographic characteristics of this disease as well as understand its impact on patient quality of life (QoL).

MATERIAL and METHODS

Thirty-one vitiligo patients aged 5–16 years who visited the outpatient dermatology clinic were included in the study. The demographic information of all the patients was collected. A complete clinical examination was performed, and the disease-related features were recorded. Moreover, all the patients completed the children’s dermatology life quality index (CDLQI).

RESULTS

Of the 31 patients, 20 were girls (64.5%), and 11 were boys (35.5%). The mean patient age was 10.33±4.19 years. Vitiligo vulgaris was the most common (51.6%) clinical type of vitiligo. The most commonly involved areas were the trunk (54.9%), face (54.9%), and extremities (41.7%). In the study group, 32.3% of the patients (10 of 31) had an accompanying autoimmune disease. The median CDLQI score of the patient group was 6 (min–max: 0–22). There was a significant correlation between patient age and CDLQI score (r=0.369, p=0.041).

CONCLUSION

Vitiligo has a different clinicoepidemiological profile in children and adolescents. This disease significantly lowers the patient’s QoL. Our study found a significant correlation between patient age and CDLQI score. In clinical practice, it is important to remember that vitiligo is not only a cosmetic disorder; it may negatively affect multiple aspects of the patient’s QoL.