Assessment of quality of life in Saudi patients with vitiligo in a medical school in Qassim province, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objective: To determine the quality of life in Saudi patients with vitiligo and to detect the variables that could influence it by using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).

Methods: One hundred and nine Saudi vitiligo patients were recruited from Qassim Medical College clinics between November 2004 and September 2006. We included 61 males, 48 females with an age range of 18 to 47 years, and a mean of 26.94 (SD +/- 9.73) years. Quality of life was evaluated using DLQI questionnaire and related to variables as age, gender, marital status, and extent of cutaneous involvement.

Results: Family history of vitiligo in first degree relatives was positive in 27.5%. The mean DLQI for all cases was 14.72 (SD +/-5.173) that showed no statistical difference between males and females. Patients on light therapy and with generalized vitiligo had significantly higher DLQI scores than patients on topical treatments and localized cutaneous involvement. Women are more embarrassed and self-conscious on the disease with more impairment of their social life, personal relationships, sexual activities, and more influenced in their choice of clothing than men.

Conclusion: Vitiligo is associated with severe impairment of quality of life among Saudi patients. Dermatologists should pay careful attention to the psychosocial impact of vitiligo in the patients' life. Involvement of psychologist and even psychiatrist should be an essential part in the management of these cases.