Assessment of auditory and cochlear function in non segmental vitiligo patients: a case controlled study

Area of Science:

• Oto-audiology
• Dermatology
• Genetics

Background:

• Vitiligo, an autoimmune condition, is increasingly linked to auditory problems, though audiological manifestations are not well-documented.
• Previous research suggests a potential association between vitiligo and hearing impairments, necessitating further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate auditory and cochlear function in individuals with non-segmental vitiligo.
• To compare hearing thresholds and inner ear function between non-segmental vitiligo patients and healthy controls.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 120 participants: 60 with non-segmental vitiligo and 60 healthy controls.
• Evaluations included dermatological scoring (VIDA, VASI), otoscopic examination, basic audiological assessment, pure tone audiometry (PTA), and Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAEs).

Main Results:

• Significantly lower hearing thresholds across all tested frequencies were observed in the control group compared to the vitiligo group.
• Patients with non-segmental vitiligo demonstrated significantly reduced DPOAEs in both ears compared to controls.
• Hearing assessments indicated diminished inner ear function in non-segmental vitiligo patients.

Conclusions:

• Non-segmental vitiligo is associated with impaired auditory and cochlear function.
• The findings suggest a higher prevalence of hearing deficits and inner ear dysfunction in individuals with non-segmental vitiligo.
• Routine audiological screening may be beneficial for patients diagnosed with non-segmental vitiligo.