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High frequency of thyroid dysfunction in patients with vitiligo
L Hegedüs1, M Heidenheim, M Gervil
1Department of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Herlev Hospital, Denmark.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Vitiligo patients show a higher incidence of thyroid disease, including autoimmune thyroid disease, compared to controls. Screening for thyroid conditions in vitiligo patients is recommended.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
- Autoimmunology
Background:
- Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune condition.
- A potential link between vitiligo and autoimmune thyroid disease has been suggested.
- Previous research indicates a possible association, but further investigation is warranted.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency and types of thyroid disease in vitiligo patients.
- To compare thyroid disease prevalence in vitiligo patients versus a matched control group.
- To provide evidence supporting the autoimmune nature of vitiligo and the need for thyroid screening.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study design was employed.
- Thirty-five consecutive vitiligo patients were compared with a matched control group.
- Thyroid disease assessment included clinical signs, thyroid dysfunction, autoantibodies, and gland size.
Main Results:
- 43% of vitiligo patients (15/35) exhibited signs of thyroid disease, versus 20% (7/35) in controls (p=0.04).
- Thyroid dysfunction (hyperthyroidism/hypothyroidism) was found in 8/35 vitiligo patients, compared to 0/35 controls (p=0.003).
- Vitiligo patients had higher rates of thyroid autoantibodies and enlarged thyroid glands.
Conclusions:
- Vitiligo patients exhibit a significantly increased frequency of clinical and subclinical thyroid disease.
- These findings reinforce the hypothesis of vitiligo as an autoimmune disorder.
- Routine thyroid disease screening is advisable for individuals diagnosed with vitiligo.