Abstract
Introduction: Vitiligo is a common, chronic, and idiopathic pigmentary disorder of the skin, characterized by well-defined depigmented macules. It has a significant negative impact on psychological health of patients. Patients report having low self-esteem and a negative body image, which may result in a reduced quality of life for them. Vitiligo also has considerable potential for social stigma and cosmetic impairment, which are aspects of the disease that are often overlooked. Aims and Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the demographic characteristics of the rural population of Uttar Pradesh, India, diagnosed with vitiligo, and to study the association of the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) score with the quality of life in patients having vitiligo. Material and Methods: An observational study was conducted on 121 patients diagnosed with vitiligo at a tertiary care hospital for 6 months after receiving ethical approval. The patients’ demographic details were recorded, and the severity of their condition was assessed using the VASI. This information was then compared with the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) using a standard questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. Results: The study included a total of 121 patients, with 67 (55.4%) females and 54 (44.6%) males. Their ages ranged from 15 to 65 years, with a mean age of 32.28 years. The DLQI scores ranged from 3 to 21, with a mean of 11.49. There was no statistically significant difference in scores between males and females. Out of the total, 21 patients (12 males and 9 females) reported a small effect of the disease on their life, while 29 patients (comprising 9 males and 20 females) revealed a moderate effect. Additionally, 32 (59.3%) males and 35 (52.2%) females showed a very large effect on their life. Significant variations were observed between the DLQI score grades in relation to the VASI score. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between the VASI score and the DLQI score (P < 0.001). The DLQI score also showed a statistically significant association with increased body surface area. Conclusion: The severity of vitiligo should be evaluated not only based on the disease itself but also on its impact on the patients’ quality of life.
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