Vitiligo in North western Nigeria: Clinical and epidemiological characteristics

Vitiligo in North western Nigeria

Authors

  • Umar Abdullahi Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Keywords:

Vitiligo, acrofacial, Nigeria, clinical, epidemiological, depigmenting

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Vitiligo is the most common acquired depigmentary skin disorder characterized by progressive loss of melanocytes. This disorder occurs worldwide with an estimated prevalence of 0.1%–2% in most populations.

Objective of the study: was to assess the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of vitiligo patients in north western Nigeria.

Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on 77 adults with vitiligo attending the Dermatology clinic of a tertiary healthcare center in Nigeria, over a ten months period. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using appropriate statistical tests.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 38.97±13.82 with 45 (58.44%) as females. The mean age at first onset of vitiligo was 33.5 ±14.84 years. More than half of the patients, 52 (67.5%) had their vitiligo lesions lasting for less than a year. The commonest site of lesion onset was the head and neck region observed in 55 (71.4%). Positive family history of vitiligo was reported in 29 (37.7%), with majority reporting vitiligo in their first degree relatives 25 (86.2). The commonest form of vitiligo observed according to pattern of distribution was generalized/vulgaris in 29 (37.7%), which was closely followed by acrofacial vitiligo in 23 (29.9%).

Conclusion: This study observed vitiligo to affect more females than males, with vitiligo vulgaris and acrofacial vitiligo remaining the most common forms in this study. Positive family history of vitiligo especially in first degree relatives was observed in a significant number of the study participants.

 

Author Biography

Umar Abdullahi, Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

DR. UMAR ABDULLAHI FMCP LECTURER/CONSULTANT PHYSICIAN DERMATOLOGIST DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY ZARIA KADUNA STATE NIGERIA

Published

2021-09-02