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Retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in vitiligo patients
Nurgül Ornek1, Zafer Onaran, Mukadder Koçak
1Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Kırıkkale University, Turkey.
Summary
Vitiligo patients showed reduced retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in specific areas compared to controls. Further research is needed to understand the long-term impact on vision in vitiligo.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Retinal Imaging
Background:
- Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune condition affecting skin pigmentation.
- Potential ocular manifestations of vitiligo are increasingly recognized.
- The impact of vitiligo on retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the relationship between vitiligo and RNFL thickness.
- To compare RNFL parameters in vitiligo patients versus healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving 34 vitiligo patients and 84 controls.
- Retinal nerve fiber layer thickness measured using scanning laser polarimetry (GDx VCC).
- Analysis of RNFL thickness in different sectors and quadrants.
Main Results:
- Vitiligo patients had significantly lower average RNFL thickness in the right eyes compared to controls (P=0.02).
- Superior sector RNFL thickness was significantly reduced in both eyes of vitiligo patients (P=0.004, P=0.008).
- Topographical distribution of RNFL thickness was similar across groups.
Conclusions:
- RNFL thickness may be affected in vitiligo patients, particularly in superior sectors.
- Findings suggest potential subclinical retinal changes in vitiligo.
- Further studies are warranted to elucidate the clinical significance.
