Childhood vitiligo: A hospital-based cross-sectional study from South India

Abstract

Background: Vitiligo, a depigmenting disorder results due to destruction of melanocytes in the affected skin. It may have psychosocial impact on children and their parents. Childhood vitiligo may differ from that in adults. Aim: To study the clinicoepidemiological profile and associated diseases in children with vitiligo. Methods: One hundred consecutive children (≤18 years) of both sexes, with vitiligo presenting between January and December 2018, were included. Detailed history, examination, and laboratory parameters were documented. Data were analyzed using simple statistical measures, chi-square, independent t tests, and Fisher exact test, wherever applicable. Results: Boys:girls ratio was 1:1.5. The mean age of onset was 9.17 ± 4.6 years [segmental vitiligo (SV: 6.6 ± 3.7 years) versus nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV: 9.7 ± 4.7 years); P = 0.014]. Vitiligo vulgaris (VV; 55, 55%) was the most common, followed by focal (16, 16%), segmental (16, 16%), and others. Most common site involved at onset (36, 36%) and presentation (n = 57) was lower limbs, but differed among various types. Leukotrichia was commonly seen in SV (n = 11, 68.8%) as compared to NSV [(n = 29, 34.5%); P = 0.01]. Family history (11, 11%) was seen only in NSV. Vitiligo disease activity score +4 was the most common (69, 69%). Koebner phenomenon was more common in NSV (n = 22, 26.2%) as compared to SV (n = 1, 6.3%) and varied among different types (P = 0.01). Nail changes were present in 72 children (72%); longitudinal ridging was the most common (n = 40, 55.6%). Thyroid function tests were abnormal in nine (11.7%) and 29 (36.3%) had anemia. Two had halo nevus. Conclusion: Various types of vitiligo in children seem to differ in their clinicoepidemiological characteristics, knowledge of which helps in better evaluation and management. Anemia and thyroid dysfunction seem to be common in children with vitiligo.