Clinical and Psychological Implications of Genital Vitiligo in a Thai Population
Issued Date
2024-01-01
Resource Type
ISSN
12034754
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85200965894
Journal Title
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery (2024)
Suggested Citation
Yodtraiseevirat T., Paringkarn T., Watchirakaeyoon P., Kulthanan K., Chaiyabutr C., Wongpraparut C., Silpa-archa N. Clinical and Psychological Implications of Genital Vitiligo in a Thai Population. Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery (2024). doi:10.1177/12034754241269200 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/100565
Title
Clinical and Psychological Implications of Genital Vitiligo in a Thai Population
Author's Affiliation
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Background: The understanding of genital vitiligo among Thai individuals is limited. Objectives: This study evaluated the clinical presentation, quality of life, and sexual health consequences of genital vitiligo. Methods: This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study involving vitiligo patients aged 18 years or older with past or present genital involvement was conducted at Siriraj Hospital. It also measured aspects of sexual health and quality of life. Results: The mean age of the 41 participants was 48.2 years, and 24 (58.5%) were males. All participants presented with genital vitiligo. In males, the penile shaft (45.8%), scrotum (45.8%), and glans (33.3%) were predominantly affected. In females, the mons pubis (64.7%), labia majora (23.5%), and labia minora (23.5%) were frequently involved. Both sexes reported afflictions in the pubic area (41.5%), inguinal region (36.6%), buttocks (34.1%), and oral mucosa (34.1%). Itching was the principal symptom in 26.8% of the patients. The median Dermatology Life Quality Index scores were significantly different (females 6, males 3.5). Compared with their male counterparts, females exhibited lower self-esteem (41.2% vs 29.2%), greater apprehension about marriage (11.8% vs 8.3%), and embarrassment about sexual activities (23.5% vs 16.7%). Remarkably, 65.9% of patients had not discussed their genital vitiligo with their doctors, and 51.2% of physicians had not inquired about or examined for genital involvement. Conclusions: Genital vitiligo adversely impacts quality of life and self-esteem, particularly among female patients. The lack of discourse between patients and physicians highlights a need for increased awareness and proactive clinical investigations to enhance patient care and satisfaction.