Clinical study of vitiligo with otological changes

Abstract

Background: Vitiligo affects melanocytes present in skin, eyes and inner ear Aims: To study the spectrum of vitiligo and to screen for audiological abnormalities. Materials and methods: Hospital based observational study was conducted to know the spectrum of vitiligo and screening was done for audiological abnormality to detect asymptomatic sensorineural deafness in all patients. Results: 56 patients were included in the study with mean age of 27.6 years. Vitiligo vulgaris was the most common type. The initial site of onset was the lower limbs followed by the face. Sensorineural deafness was detected in 7.14% of cases. Conclusion: In the present study vitiligo vulgaris is the commonest type, and the initial site of onset is commonly the lower limbs. Audiological examination must be done in all cases of vitiligo to detect early onset of sensorineural deafness.