Ocular and auditory comorbidities in patients with vitiligo: A nationwide population-based study in the Republic of Korea.

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease affecting the skin and melanocytes in other organs, including the eyes and ears. However, large-scale studies on its ocular and auditory comorbidities are limited.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate ocular and auditory comorbidities in patients with vitiligo.

METHODS

A nationwide population-based cross-sectional study was conducted using the National Health Insurance database of the Republic of Korea (2016-2021). Patients with vitiligo were matched with comparators by age, sex, and observation period. Multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios for comorbidities.

RESULTS

A total of 147,610 patients with vitiligo and 590,440 matched comparators were included. Children and adolescents with vitiligo had increased risks of dry eye, glaucoma, retinal diseases, and visual impairment. Among adults, the spectrum of comorbidities expanded to include nonanterior uveitis, cataracts, and additional retinal diseases. Auditory abnormalities, including hearing loss, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, and vestibular neuronitis, were more prevalent in adults. Older age was associated with a higher risk of comorbidities. Phototherapy was generally safe but was linked to a slightly increased risk of glaucoma.

LIMITATION: Potential diagnostic code inaccuracies.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitiligo is associated with increased risks of ocular and auditory comorbidities, underscoring the importance of patient consultation and tailored management.