FAQWhich diseases most commonly accompany vitiligo?

FAQ

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease and is frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases, acccording to a 10-year study. The exact diseases that accompany vitiligo can vary, but the most common ones include:

  • hypothyroidism
  • multiple sclerosis
  • rheumatoid arthritis
  • idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
  • seronegative arthritis
  • pernicious anemia
  • myasthenia gravis
  • inflammatory bowel disease
  • lymphoma, and
  • systemic lupus erythematosus.
  • type 1 and type 2 diabetes
  • alopecia areata
  • psoriasis
  • chronic urticaria
  • Guillain-Barre syndrome
  • linear morphea
  • ulcerative colitis
  • celiac disease
  • Raynaud’s disease
  • sarcoid
  • Crohn’s disease
  • dermatitis herpetiformis
  • Addison’s disease, and
  • Sjögren syndrome.

While vitiligo can indeed coexist with other autoimmune conditions, it's key to remember that this isn't a given for everyone. The chance of having an accompanying autoimmune disease varies, with factors such as race and gender coming into play.

In terms of race, it's observed that Black patients tend to have the highest likelihood at 16.4%, closely trailed by White and Hispanic patients at 16.3% and 15.7%, respectively. Asian patients exhibit a somewhat lower rate, between 7.9% and 8.4%. On the gender front, women at 17.7% are significantly more likely to have concurrent autoimmune conditions than men, who sit at 6.7%.

Understanding this pattern of potential coexisting conditions is essential, particularly for those navigating life with vitiligo and those caring for them. If you're juggling multiple health conditions, keeping your doctor informed about all your medications is non-negotiable to prevent undesirable interactions.

If you're living with vitiligo and the possibility of developing other autoimmune disorders weighs on your mind, don't shy away from voicing these concerns to your healthcare provider. Regular health checks and a keen eye on symptoms can go a long way in detecting and nipping any new conditions in the bud.

Suggested reading: Which skin conditions can be mistaken for vitiligo?

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