Familial frequency of vitiligo and its association with autoimmune disorders

Objective To determine the familial frequency of vitiligo and its association with autoimmune disorders. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Dermatology, Mayo Hospital, Lahore. Hundred patients of vitiligo of any age and either sex, diagnosed on the basis of history and clinical examination were enrolled from the outpatient department. Patients were evaluated for familial frequency of vitiligo and its association with other autoimmune diseases by means of a specially designed proforma. Results Total number of vitiligo patients was 100. Family history of vitiligo was seen in 22% of cases. Associated autoimmune disorders were seen in 23% of cases and were mainly diabetes mellitus, autoimmune thyroid disease, alopecia areata and eczemas. Conclusion This study reveals that generalized vitiligo is associated with other autoimmune disorders, showing similar genetic basis. Therefore it is important to evaluate as well as investigate, where necessary, vitiligo patients for other autoimmune disorders.