Prevalence and Frequency of Depression in Patients with Vitiligo

Vitiligo is an acquired pigmentary disorder results from destruction of melanocytes in the context of autoimmune and neurologic disturbances. This disease is resistant to treatment and is concomitant with recurrence and spontaneous recovery. As this disease has undesirable effects on the beauty of many affected patients, it makes some social, mental and familial damages. Here we aimed to study the prevalence and severity of depression in patients with vitiligo and healthy controls. We performed a cross sectional study on 110 patients with vitiligo who were referred to the dermatology clinic of Farshchian hospital and 110 healthy controls matched for age and sex. Two questionnaires consisting of demographic features and Hamilton depression scale were employed to evaluate the patients and controls. There were 56/4% female and 43/6% male, ranging from12-65 years old. Vitiligo was first diagnosed in 47/1% of patients under the age of 20 years old. Prevalence and score of depression was significantly higher (52/7%) in patients compared to controls (14/5%). There was significant relationship between depression score and age, sex and occupation. Depression was significantly higher in patients between 14-20 years old, female and unemployed. Mild depression was observed in both groups. Vitiligo may lead to the mental, social, occupational and psychological problems. Regardless of the prevalence of depression in these patients, there must be great consideration about the psychiatric problems. Deromatologists and psychologists should collaborate for further management of these patients. K e y w o r d s Vitiligo, Depression, Hamilton depression scale