Psychometric Evaluation of Patients With Vitiligo

Area of Science:

• Psychodermatology
• Clinical Psychology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition with significant psychosocial effects.
• Understanding the psychological burden and its correlates is crucial for patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate depression, psychopathology, personality traits, and quality of life in vitiligo patients.
• To identify demographic and clinical factors associated with psychological distress and social functioning.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study of 100 vitiligo patients.
• Utilized validated questionnaires for depression (BDI), psychopathology (SCL-90-R), personality (EPQ), hostility (HDHQ), and quality of life (DLQI).
• Statistical analyses included non-parametric tests, correlations, and regression models.

Main Results:

• Over one-third of patients reported mild-to-severe depressive symptoms.
• Psychological distress manifested as anxiety, depression, somatization, and interpersonal sensitivity.
• Female sex, comorbidities, and specific lesion locations (trunk, genital, extremities) were associated with higher depression and poorer quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Vitiligo is a multidimensional disorder requiring integrated dermatologic and mental health care.
• Psychological status and personality traits significantly influence quality of life more than disease severity alone.
• Interdisciplinary management is essential for addressing the holistic needs of vitiligo patients.