Evaluation of Thyroid Functions and Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies in Patients with Vitiligo

Abstract

Vitiligo is a common skin disorder, and the pathogenesis is unknown. An increased prevalence of autoimmune thyroid diseases has been described in these patients. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction and hypoparathyroidism in patients with vitiligo. One hundred and twenty patients (48 males and 72 females) with vitiligo were enrolled. Thyroid physical examination was carried out. Thyroid function tests, thyroid antibodies, calcium and phosphorus were assessed. The collected data were analysed. Thyromegaly was found in 32.1% of patients. Hypothyroidism was found in 18 (16.7%) out of 120 cases. Two of them had clinical and 14 had subclinical hypothyroidism. One patient had Grave's disease. Antibody positivity was the most common disorder (anti-TPO and anti-tg were positive in 38.7 and 34.1%, respectively). No patient had hypoparathyroidism. Thyroid dysfunction, particulary hypothyroidism and thyroid antibodies increased in patients with vitiligo.