Clinico-epidemiology vitiligo profile in childhood at Mangusada General Hospital Badung

Abstract

Introduction: Vitiligo is a depigmentation disorder characterized by well-demarcated white macules and patches on the skin. Vitiligo commonly occurs in children or young adults. Vitiligo can be classified into segmental, non-segmental and mixed type. Childhood vitiligo is often associated with many negative consequences, especially marked psychosocial and long-lasting effects on the self-esteem of the affected children. This study investigated characteristics and risk factors associated with vitiligo in childhood. Method: This was a retrospective descriptive study of patient aged 0-18 years old that was diagnosed with vitiligo derived from interview and medical records of Dermatovenereology Outpatient Clinic in Mangusada Hospital, Badung, Bali, from January to September 2023. This study included profiling data such as gender, the onset of vitiligo, clinical distribution, risk factors, and family history that suggested influencing the development of vitiligo. This study used a total sampling method, and 21 patients were participating. Results: Vitiligo in childhood was found in 11 patients female (52%) and 10 male (48%) patients in this study. A third of the patients were in elementary school, and only one (5,5%) was in preschool. The age of vitiligo patients was 13-15 (23,81%). The site of onset vitiligo was mostly in the face (21,42%), lower limb (17,85%), scalp, lumbar, and foot (10,71%). The distribution type focal distribution was predominant (38,09%), followed by segmental and generalized distribution (23,8%) and acrofacial (14,28%). Conclusions: Vitiligo was predominantly affected in a female patient. Idiopathic was the most common risk factor for vitiligo, and focal distribution was the most common type of lesion. Since vitiligo is a cosmetic skin problem and is not contagious or threatening the patient’s life, the available treatment is sufficient.