Risk of sensorineural hearing loss in patients with vitiligo.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of hearing loss and vestibular symptoms among Israeli vitiligo patients as compared with healthy controls.

METHODS

16 vitiligo patients and 16 healthy controls were enrolled in this prospective study. Vitiligo patients had undergone dermatologic evaluation and complete ENT evaluation.

RESULTS

Vitiligo patients demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) (p = 0.001). A 'notch'-shaped audiogram was the most frequent type of audiogram found among vitiligo patients (p = 0.021). Patients with mucosal involvement as the primary site of onset had a significantly more normal hearing level (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the high prevalence of SNHL amongst vitiligo patients, it is recommended that these patients undergo a complete hearing evaluation, avoiding ototoxic hazards if possible.