We presume that the pro-inflammatory state in vitiligo may contribute to atopic disorders, such as eczema and atopic dermatitis. We previously reported a high prevalence of skin symptoms in vitiligo, such as itching or burning. Recent observational studies revealed the possible association between atopic dermatitis and autoimmune disorders. However, there is no meta-analysis of the prevalence or incidence of autoimmune diseases in atopic dermatitis.
Therefore, taking into account the possible clinical implications of these associations, our objective was to evaluate the risk of autoimmune diseases in patients with atopic dermatitis using this method. Eczema is estimated to affect 30% of the US population and occurs equally in both men and women. For some people, eczema goes away over time, and for others, it can remain a lifelong condition. Although there is no general cure for eczema, our certified dermatologists will evaluate the type of eczema you may have through a skin exam and provide you with a treatment plan to support skin health and relieve the symptoms of eczema.
Vitiligo and psoriasis are autoimmune diseases. Vitiligo causes the destruction of the pigment and creates white spots of the skin. Psoriasis causes the accumulation of dead cells and leads to discolored patches with silver scales. Because of common genetic and immune dysfunction, some people have both conditions.
Vitiligo usually progresses slowly, often in attacks and beginnings; it will spread rapidly over a short period of months and then show little change in subsequent years. A meta-analysis of observational studies was conducted to compare the prevalence and assess the risk of vitiligo in patients with AD. The pooling of the results of two cohort studies showed an increased risk of vitiligo in patients with AD (RR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.27-2.1). In some countries where leprosy is endemic, depigmented vitiligo spots can be confused with those seen in leprosy, leading to social stigmatization.
The randomized effects meta-analysis of case-control and cross-sectional studies showed a significant association of atopic dermatitis with multiple autoimmune diseases, including alopecia areata, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, systematic lupus erythematosus, ulcerative colitis, and vitiligo. A newer class of drugs called Janus kinase inhibitors (JAK) has shown promise in studies as a treatment for vitiligo and psoriasis. Vitiligo is equally common in men and women, although in some studies it appears that more women are affected, but this may be because they are more eager to present symptoms to the doctor early. About 1% of the population has vitiligo, which causes skin patches to lose all their melanin (pigment).
About 25 to 50 percent of people with vitiligo have a relative with the condition, and about six percent have siblings with vitiligo.
