Prevalence of Vitiligo Among Adults in the United States

Comparison of various excimer laser (EL) combination therapies for vitiligo: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

AIM

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of excimer laser (EL)-based combination regimens in improving repigmentation.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase on July 1, 2023, to include randomized controlled trials of EL combination treatments for vitiligo that met the criteria. The primary outcome measure was a repigmentation rate ≥ 75%, and the secondary outcome measures were a repigmentation rate of ≤ 25% and adverse events.

RESULTS

Eleven studies involving 348 patients were included. Network Meta-Analysis showed that EL combined with antioxidants (SUCRA = 98.8%), EL combined with calcipotriol (SUCRA = 59.8%) and EL combined with tacalcitol (SUCRA = 59.6%) were the three optimal interventions achieving repigmentation rates ≥ 75%. EL alone (SUCRA = 77.6%), EL combined with tacalcitol (SUCRA = 61.7%) and EL combined with antioxidants (SUCRA = 57.2%) were the three interventions with the highest rates of treatment failure. Adverse events in all groups mainly included erythema, burning sensation and hyperpigmentation. Based on the results of the current study, EL combination therapies were safe with mild adverse events.

CONCLUSION

EL combined with antioxidants was the preferred regimen for vitiligo, whereas EL alone was the regimen with the highest rate of treatment failure in vitiligo.

Pathogenesis of Alopecia Areata and Vitiligo: Commonalities and Differences

Both alopecia areata (AA) and vitiligo are distinct, heterogenous, and complex disease entities, characterized by nonscarring scalp terminal hair loss and skin pigment loss, respectively. In AA, inflammatory cell infiltrates are in the deep reticular dermis close to the hair bulb (swarm of bees), whereas in vitiligo the inflammatory infiltrates are in the epidermis and papillary dermis. Immune privilege collapse has been extensively investigated in AA pathogenesis, including the suppression of immunomodulatory factors (e.g., transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), programmed death-ligand 1 (PDL1), interleukin-10 (IL-10), α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)) and enhanced expression of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) throughout hair follicles. However, immune privilege collapse in vitiligo remains less explored. Both AA and vitiligo are autoimmune diseases that share commonalities in pathogenesis, including the involvement of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (and interferon-α (IFN- α) signaling pathways) and cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes (and activated IFN-γ signaling pathways). Blood chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 9 (CXCL9) and CXCL10 are elevated in both diseases. Common factors that contribute to AA and vitiligo include oxidative stress, autophagy, type 2 cytokines, and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway (e.g., dickkopf 1 (DKK1)). Here, we summarize the commonalities and differences between AA and vitiligo, focusing on their pathogenesis.

Exploring the impact of diet and nutrition on vitiligo: A systematic review of dietary factors and nutritional interventions

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo, an autoimmune skin disorder linked to hormonal and genetic factors, results in reduced pigmentation due to a gradual decline in melanocyte activity. This systematic review delves into the role of dietary intervention and nutrition in managing vitiligo.

METHODS

A comprehensive search on PubMed, Google Scholar, and European PMC identified 214 studies, with 14 meeting inclusion criteria post-screening. The selected studies primarily explored the impact of dietary supplements on disease activity.

RESULTS

Heavy metal exposure, specifically Cd, Pb, and Hg, indicated potential links to heightened reactive oxygen species and vitiligo development. Conflicting evidence emerged regarding the role of trace minerals (Zn and Cu), with some studies suggesting deficiencies and others proposing excesses in vitiligo patients. Vitamins with anti-inflammatory properties like vitamin C, D, and B12, along with antioxidants, were investigated for their potential in repigmentation strategies. Additionally, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially in varying types of fat consumption, were implicated. Emphasizing the need to reduce reliance on pharmacological and phototherapy interventions, the review uncovers novel roles for dietary supplements as adjuncts or flare reducers.

CONCLUSION

While dietary interventions cannot be thought of as a standalone therapy, they still make a case for being used as adjuncts. Large scale clinical trials are warranted to establish strong evidence and protocols, and might also help reduce the dependency on pharmacological methods, which come with their adverse effect profiles.

Clinical profile of vitiligo patients and relationship with immuno-inflammatory markers

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo is the most common pigmentary disorder and is considered a chronic, cumulative, multifactorial disease. The crucial role of cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes and the IFNγ/CXCL10 axis has been demonstrated in its pathogenesis.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical profile and immuno-inflammatory markers in patients with vitiligo in a reference medical center.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study in which all patients with vitiligo seen at the medical center the from 2019 to 2022 were evaluated, to outline the clinical profile. Moreover, cardiovascular risk biomarkers (neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and C-reactive protein levels) were measured, as well as cytokines and chemokines (TNFα, IFNγ, IL10, IL15 and CXCL10) in the serum of a subgroup of 30 patients.

RESULTS

There was a predominance of females, with a mean age of 43 years. Most were phototypes IV or V (71.3%), without comorbidities (77.55%), and without a family history of vitiligo (70.41%). Higher levels of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, C-reactive protein, and inflammatory cytokines/chemokines were documented in vitiligo patients when compared to the control group (non-significant). As relevant data, the highest values of CXCL10 were detected in patients with vitiligo versus controls, as well as in patients with disease of shorter duration (p<0.05).

STUDY LIMITATIONS

The number of assessed patients was small due to recruitment difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSION

The present data contribute to confirming the relevant role of the IFNγ/CXCL10 axis in the pathogenesis of vitiligo, highlighting CXCL10 as a possible activity marker.

Prevalence and Clinical Impact of Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Results from a Large Retrospective Observational Study

(1) Background: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic inflammatory disorders involving innate and adaptive immune responses. Despite primarily affecting the gut, recent insights highlight systemic implications, expanding our understanding beyond intestinal boundaries. (2) Methods: This retrospective multicentric study explored the association of IBD and immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) and the impact of concurrent IMIDs on the course of IBD. Clinical data were collected from consecutive medical records of patients with IBD. For assessing the impact of concurrent IMIDs, a control group of IBD patients without associated IMIDs was considered. (3) Results: Of 6589 IBD patients, 6.8% exhibited concomitant IMIDs. Notably, 79.8% of these patients had an aggressive disease course. Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and type 1 diabetes mellitus prevalence were lower in the IBD population than in the general population. Conversely, multiple sclerosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and pyoderma gangrenosum were more prevalent in IBD patients. Among the patients with a concomitant IMID, 79.8% had an aggressive disease course vs. 8.1% in the control group (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: This study underscores the frequency of IMIDs in IBD patients and their association with a more aggressive disease course. The recognition of concurrent IMIDs is crucial for comprehensive patient management, influencing therapeutic decisions and potentially improving outcomes.

The Assessment of Infection Risk in Patients with Vitiligo Undergoing Dialysis for End-Stage Renal Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition that causes patchy skin depigmentation. Although the mechanism by which vitiligo induces immunocompromise is unclear, other related autoimmune diseases are known to predispose those affected to infection. Individuals with vitiligo exhibit epidermal barrier disruption, which could potentially increase their susceptibility to systemic infections; patients with renal disease also show a predisposition to infection. Nevertheless, there is little research addressing the risk of infection in dialysis patients with vitiligo in comparison to those without it. A retrospective analysis was performed on patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in the United States Renal Data System who started dialysis between 2004 and 2019 to determine if ESRD patients with vitiligo are at an increased risk of bacteremia, cellulitis, conjunctivitis, herpes zoster, or septicemia. Multivariable logistic regression modeling indicated that female sex, black compared to white race, Hispanic ethnicity, hepatitis C infection, and tobacco use were associated with an enhanced risk of vitiligo, whereas increasing age and catheter, versus arteriovenous fistula, and access type were associated with a decreased risk. After controlling for demographics and clinical covariates, vitiligo was found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of bacteremia, cellulitis, and herpes zoster but not with conjunctivitis and septicemia.

Improvements in immune/melanocyte biomarkers with JAK3/TEC family kinase inhibitor ritlecitinib in vitiligo

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo is an autoimmune depigmenting disorder with no effective and safe treatments. Its pathogenesis is not fully elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

This substudy of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2b trial (NCT03715829) evaluated effects of ritlecitinib, an oral JAK3/TEC family kinase inhibitor, on skin and blood biomarkers in participants with nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV).

METHODS

Sixty-five adults with NSV participated in the substudy and received daily treatment for 24 weeks with placebo (n = 14) or ritlecitinib with or without a 4-week loading dose: 200 (loading dose)/50 mg (n = 13), 100/50 mg (n = 12), 50 mg (n = 11), 30 mg (n = 8), or 10 mg (n = 6). Skin (lesional and nonlesional) biopsy samples were obtained at baseline and at 4 and 24 weeks. Changes from baseline to weeks 4 and 24 in skin and blood molecular and cellular biomarkers were evaluated by RNA sequencing, quantitative real-time PCR, proteomic analysis, and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Ritlecitinib-treated groups showed downregulation of immune biomarkers and upregulation of melanocyte-related markers at weeks 4 and 24 compared to baseline and/or placebo. Significant reductions were seen in CD3+/CD8+ T-cell infiltrates, with significant increases in melanocyte markers (tyrosinase; Melan-A) in NSV lesions in the 50 mg ritlecitinib groups (both P < .05). There was significant, dose-dependent downregulation in T-cell activation, NK, cytotoxic, and regulatory markers in lesional skin (IL-2, IL2-RA, IL-15, CCR7, CD5, CRTAM, NCR1, XCL1, KIR3DL1, FASLG, KLRD; P < .05). TH1 and TH2 markers were also downregulated in lesional skin and blood in a dose-dependent manner (P < .05). Changes in immune biomarkers correlated with clinical response.

CONCLUSIONS

Ritlecitinib significantly downregulated proinflammatory biomarkers and increased melanocyte products in skin and blood of participants with NSV, suggesting its potential in treatment. Ritlecitinib-mediated changes positively correlated with clinical response.

Reliability and agreement testing of a new automated measurement method to determine facial vitiligo extent using standardized ultraviolet images and a dedicated algorithm

BACKGROUND

Facial repigmentation is the primary outcome measure for most vitiligo trials. The Facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (F-VASI) score is often chosen as the primary outcome measure to assess the efficacy of treatments for facial vitiligo. Although useful, this scoring system remains subjective and has several limitations.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the agreement and reliability of an algorithmic method to measure the percentage depigmentation of vitiligo on the face.

METHODS

We developed a dedicated algorithm called Vitil-IA® to assess depigmentation on standardized facial ultraviolet (UV) pictures. We then conducted a cross-sectional study using the framework of the ERASE trial (NCT04843059) in 22 consecutive patients attending a tertiary care centre for vitiligo. Depigmentation was analysed before any treatment and, for 7 of them, after 3 and 6 months of narrowband UVB treatment combined with 16 mg methylprednisolone, both used twice weekly. Interoperator and interacquisition repeatability measures were assessed for the algorithm. The results of the algorithmic measurement were then compared with the F-VASI and the percentage of depigmented skin scores assessed by 13 raters, including 7 experts in the grading of vitiligo lesions.

RESULTS

Thirty-one sets of pictures were analysed with the algorithmic method. Internal validation showed excellent reproducibility, with a variation of < 3%. The percentage of depigmentation assessed by the system showed high agreement with the percentage of depigmentation assessed by raters [mean error (ME) -11.94 and mean absolute error (MAE) 12.71 for the nonexpert group; ME 0.43 and MAE 5.57 for the expert group]. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for F-VASI was 0.45 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.29-0.62] and 0.52 (95% CI 0.37-0.68) for nonexperts and experts, respectively. When the results were analysed separately for homogeneous and heterogeneous depigmentation, the ICC for homogeneous depigmentation was 0.47 (95% CI 0.31-0.77) and 0.85 (95% CI 0.72-0.94) for nonexperts and experts, respectively. When grading heterogeneous depigmentation, the ICC was 0.19 (95% CI 0.05-0.43) and 0.38 (95% CI 0.20-0.62) for nonexperts and experts, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that the Vitil-IA algorithm provides a reliable assessment of facial involvement in vitiligo. The study underlines the limitations of the F-VASI score when performed by nonexperts for homogeneous vitiligo depigmentation, and in all raters when depigmentation is heterogeneous.

The landscape of vitiligo in Latin America: a call to action

Vitiligo is a chronic pigmentary condition and severely impacts patient quality of life (QoL). It is an underrecognized burden for patients, healthcare systems, and society in Latin America (LA). This paper examines the journey of a vitiligo patient in LA and assesses the disease landscape. Americas Health Foundation (AHF) assembled a panel of six Argentine, Brazilian, Colombian, and Mexican vitiligo experts. On 10-12 May 2022, they met in a virtual meeting. Each panelist wrote a short paper on barriers to vitiligo diagnosis and treatment in LA before the meeting. AHF staff moderated as the panel reviewed and modified each paper over three days. The panel approved the recommendations based on research, professional opinion, and personal experience. The panel agreed that lack of disease awareness and research, social ostracization, and limited therapeutic options hinder patients in their quest for diagnosis and treatment. In addition to the medical and psychological difficulties associated with vitiligo, problems connected to the Latin American healthcare system may negatively impact diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Access to timely diagnosis and treatment is crucial for improving outcomes. Governments, medical societies, academics, patient organizations, industry, and the public must unite to eliminate these challenges.

Psychiatric morbidity among patients suffering from Vitiligo

Background

Vitiligo is a chronic acquired, stigmatizing disease characterized by discoloration of skin and mucous membranes. Patients suffering from this condition suffer from a lack of confidence and psychological stress.

Aim

To assess depression, anxiety, and social anxiety among patients suffering from vitiligo.

Material and Method

This hospital-based cross-sectional, observational, descriptive study was carried out in a tertiary care center on 100 patients suffering from vitiligo, who were consecutively enrolled after informed consent from the outpatient department (OPD) of the dermatology department. Permission was obtained from the institutional ethics committee Diagnosis of vitiligo was made by two consultants from the department of dermatology. Sociodemographic variables were recorded in the sociodemographic form. The General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) was applied to all 100 patients. Patients who scored >3 on GHQ-12 were further subjected to the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), and Social Interaction Anxiety Scale. Results were statistically analyzed on SPSS-22.0 (IBM, Armonk, USA).

Results

Of all the patients, 55% (n = 55) had a GHQ score >3 (i.e., Psychiatric morbidity was present in 55% of patients.). Out of 50 patients in the age group of 18-25 years, 41 patients in the age groups of 26-35 years, and 9 patients in the age groups of 36-45 years, 22 (44%), 17 (42.1%), and 6 patients had psychiatric morbidity, respectively. Of the total number of patients, 46% had depression according to the HAM-D scale. Of all the patients, 18% had mild, 22% had moderate, and 6% had severe depression. Age-wise analysis showed that out of 50 patients in the age group of 18-25 years, 41 patients in the age group of 26-35 years, and 9 patients in the age group of 36-45 years, 22 (44%), 20 (48.7%), and 4 patients had depression, respectively. Of the patients who had depression, 39% were male and 58% were female. On HAM-A, 47% of the patients had anxiety; 33% had mild, 12% had moderate, and 2% had severe anxiety. Age-wise analysis showed that out of 50 patients in the age group of 18-25, 41 patients in the age group of 26-35 years, and 9 patients in the age group of 36-45 years, 20 (40%), 23 (56.1%), and 3 patients had anxiety, respectively. On SIAS, 36% of the patients had social anxiety. Out of 50 patients in the age group of 18-25 years, 41 patients in the age group of 26-35 years, and 9 patients in the age group of 36-45 years, 23 (46%), 9 (7.8%) and 4 patients had social anxiety, respectively. According to gender-wise distribution, 17% of male and 63% of female patients had social anxiety.

Conclusion

A high prevalence of anxiety, depression, and social anxiety has been observed in this present study. Therefore, importance should be given to psychiatric evaluation of such patients and, if required, necessary interventions should be undertaken to improve their quality of life.

Efficacy and safety of Chinese patent medicine compound preparation combined with routine treatment in vitiligo: A Bayesian network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Treating vitiligo in clinical practice is challenging. Furthermore, oral drugs used in Western medicine have considerable side effects and are unsuitable for long-term treatment. In contrast, Chinese patent medicines (CPMs) are more suitable for long-term oral vitiligo treatment, but medical evidence of their efficacy and safety is lacking. Therefore, in this study, the efficacy and safety of CPMs were evaluated and ranked using a Bayesian network meta-analysis.

METHODS

Seven Chinese and English databases were searched for all relevant articles published up to February 2023. The Bayesian network meta-analysis method was used to analyze the extracted data to evaluate efficacy and safety.

RESULTS

Six common CPMs for treating vitiligo were selected in our study, and 48 targeted articles and 4446 patients were included. This study showed that Qubai Babuqi tablets (QT) were the most effective for short-term treatment of vitiligo, and that vitiligo capsules or pills (VCP) were the most effective for long-term treatment, together with compound Quchong Banjiuju pills (QP). In terms of surface area under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) values, the order of efficacy of each treatment was as follows: QT (92.18%) > Taohong Qingxue pills (TP) (63.81%) > VCP (55.53%) > QP (50.72%) > Bailing tablets or capsules (BTC) (49.01%) > Baishi pills (BP) (35.69%)>routine therapy (RT) (3.1%) in terms of total effective rate and QT (92.05%) > VCP (71.50%) > QP (66.60%) > TP (42.95%) > BTC (39.66%) > BP (36.60%)>RT (0.6%) in terms of improvement rate. In addition, the safety of the 6 CPMs did not significantly differ in terms of adverse effects. The SUCRA values indicated that QT performed slightly worse than other drugs.

DISCUSSION

In treating vitiligo, QT is most effective but only suitable for short-term administration owing to its poor safety. VCP and QP could be used as first-choice long-term medications. TP may positively affect repigmentation in patients with limited lesion areas.

Incidence and Prevalence of Diagnosed Vitiligo According to Race and Ethnicity, Age, and Sex in the US

Importance

Vitiligo has substantial psychosocial consequences. Yet its burden is poorly established.

Objective

To estimate incidence and prevalence of diagnosed vitiligo across age, sex, and racial and ethnic subgroups in the US.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This analysis comprising a cohort study and cross-sectional study included electronic health records for health care-seeking children, adolescents, and adults across 4 US census regions. Data for the incidence analysis were obtained from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2019, and data for the prevalence analysis were obtained from January 1 through December 31, 2019. Data were analyzed from December 13, 2022, to June 8, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcomes were incidence (per 100 000 person-years [PY]) and prevalence of diagnosed vitiligo overall and by age, race and ethnicity, and sex.

Results

A total of 2 980 778 patients with vitiligo were included in the incidence analysis (mean [SD] age, 41.5 [24.0] years; 57.0% female; 1.4% Asian American; 12.9% Black; 1.5% Hispanic/Latino; 77.3% White; 6.9% other or multiracial) and 1 057 534 in the prevalence analysis (mean [SD] age, 43.4 [24.7] years; 57.5% female; 1.7% Asian American, 14.7% Black, 1.4% Hispanic/Latino; 75.7% White; 6.6% other or multiracial). Age- and sex-adjusted overall incidence rate (IR) of diagnosed vitiligo was 22.6 per 100 000 PY (95% CI, 21.5-23.8 per 100 000 PY), and prevalence was 0.16% (95% CI, 0.15%-0.17%). Sex-adjusted IR was highest among patients aged 60 to 69 years (25.3 per 100 000 PY; 95% CI, 22.2-28.6 per 100 000 PY), and prevalence was highest among patients aged 70 years or older (0.21%; 95% CI, 0.19%-0.23%). The highest age-adjusted IR was observed among Asian American patients (41.2 per 100 000 PY; 95% CI, 28.2-58.2 per 100 000 PY), followed by Hispanic/Latino patients (37.3 per 100 000 PY; 95% CI, 25.7-52.4 per 100 000 PY), patients reporting other or multiple races (31.1 per 100 000 PY; 95% CI, 25.9-37.1 per 100 000 PY), Black patients (29.6 per 100 000 PY; 95% CI, 26.0-33.6 per 100 000 PY), and White patients (18.7 per 100 000 PY; 95% CI, 17.5-20.0 per 100 000 PY). The highest age-adjusted prevalence was observed among Hispanic/Latino patients (0.29%; 95% CI, 0.20%-0.39%), followed by Asian American patients (0.27%; 95% CI, 0.19%-0.35%), patients reporting other or multiple races (0.24%; 95% CI, 0.20%-0.28%), Black patients (0.22%; 95% CI, 0.19%-0.24%), and White patients (0.13%; 95% CI, 0.12%-0.14%).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional study found that vitiligo diagnosis was more common in older patients, Hispanic/Latino patients, and Asian American patients.

Advancing Dermatological Care: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Tele-Dermatology and mHealth for Bridging Gaps and Expanding Opportunities beyond the COVID-19 Pandemic

Mobile health (mHealth) has recently had significant advances in tele-dermatology (TD) thanks to the developments following the COVID-19 pandemic. This topic is very important, as telemedicine and mHealth, when applied to dermatology, could improve both the quality of healthcare for citizens and the workflow in the health domain. The proposed study was centered on the last three years. We conducted an overview on the opportunities, the perspectives, and the problems involved in TD integration with mHealth. The methodology of the narrative review was based on: (I) a search of PubMed and Scopus and (II) an eligibility assessment, using properly proposed parameters. The outcome of the study showed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, TD integration with mHealth advanced rapidly. This integration enabled the monitoring of dermatological problems and facilitated remote specialist visits, reducing face-to-face interactions. AI and mobile apps have empowered citizens to take an active role in their healthcare. This differs from other imaging sectors where information exchange is limited to professionals. The opportunities for TD in mHealth include improving service quality, streamlining healthcare processes, reducing costs, and providing more accessible care. It can be applied to various conditions, such as (but not limited to) acne, vitiligo, psoriasis, and skin cancers. Integration with AI and augmented reality (AR), as well as the use of wearable sensors, are anticipated as future developments. However, integrating TD with mHealth also brings about problems and challenges related to regulations, ethics, cybersecurity, data privacy, and device management. Scholars and policymakers need to address these issues while involving citizens in the process.

Global clinicoepidemiological pattern of childhood vitiligo: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Childhood vitiligo differs from adult vitiligo in many aspects. To the best of the authors' knowledge, there is no systematic review of different clinicoepidemiological patterns of vitiligo in children. This study aimed to review the characteristics of vitiligo among the paediatric population.

METHODS

In June 2022, a comprehensive search was conducted using MeSh-based keywords on online databases including PubMed, Scopus and Web of Sciences. The papers were assessed, and the eligible articles were selected. The selection of articles followed three distinct steps. The extracted clinicoepidemiological data were then imported into the STATA software for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis of 17 studies with 4365 subjects yielded 2475 women (estimated=56.8%, 95% CI 54.45 to 59.22). The female-to-male ratio was determined to be 1.3:1. Meta-regression demonstrated a significant relationship between continents and gender (p=0.03). The most prevalent types of non-segmental vitiligo were vulgaris (42.49%), focal (27.21%) and acrofacial (17.8%). The pooled ratio of non-segmental to segmental was 4.6:1. The highest and lowest ratios were found in Africa with one study (estimated=11.56%, 95% CI -0.98 to 24.10) and America with two studies (estimated=3.02%, 95% CI 1.54 to 4.50), respectively. Using meta-regression, the relationship between continents and vitiligo type was found to be insignificant (p=0.47). Positive family history was recorded in 657 patients (estimated = 16.88%, 95% CI 13.37 to 20.39). Positive family history varied by country of study from 13.91% (Asia with 11 studies) to 27.01% (Europe with two studies) (p=0.11). Kobner phenomena and leukotrichia were noted in 687 (25.47%) and 461 (18.52%) patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The review indicated that childhood vitiligo is more prevalent in women. Non-segmental forms of childhood vitiligo were the most common, including vulgaris, focal and acrofacial. The clinicoepidemiological pattern of childhood vitiligo is variable in different geographic areas.

The Role of Oxidative Stress in Vitiligo: An Update on Its Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Implications

Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin disorder caused by dysfunctional pigment-producing melanocytes which are attacked by immune cells. Oxidative stress is considered to play a crucial role in activating consequent autoimmune responses related to vitiligo. Melanin synthesis by melanocytes is the main intracellular stressor, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS). Under normal physiological conditions, the antioxidative nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway functions as a crucial mediator for cells to resist oxidative stress. In pathological situations, such as with antioxidant defects or under inflammation, ROS accumulate and cause cell damage. Herein, we summarize events at the cellular level under excessive ROS in vitiligo and highlight exposure to melanocyte-specific antigens that trigger immune responses. Such responses lead to functional impairment and the death of melanocytes, which sequentially increase melanocyte cytotoxicity through both innate and adaptive immunity. This report provides new perspectives and advances our understanding of interrelationships between oxidative stress and autoimmunity in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. We describe progress with targeted antioxidant therapy, with the aim of providing potential therapeutic approaches.

Comparison of NB-UVB combination therapy regimens for vitiligo: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo was an autoimmune disease and some guidelines for the management of vitiligo encouraged the use of NB-UVB combination therapies to enhance repigmentation.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effectiveness of current NB-UVB combination regimen at the improvement in repigmentation through a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

METHODS

We searched the electronic databases for randomized controlled trials related to NB-UVB combination therapy for vitiligo till October 2022. STATA15.0 software was applied to carrying out data analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 28 eligible studies involving 1194 participants were enrolled in the analysis. The NMA results revealed that compared with NB-UVB, carboxytherapy [OR = 32.35, 95% CI (1.79, 586.05)], Er: YAG laser+ topical 5% 5-FU [OR = 10.74, 95% CI (4.05, 28.49)], needling/micro-needling [OR = 3.42, 95% CI (1.18, 9.88)], betamethasone intramuscular injection [OR = 3.08, 95% CI (1.17, 8.13)], topical tacrolimus [OR = 2.54, 95% CI (1.30, 4.94)], and oral Chinese herbal medicine compound [OR = 2.51, 95% CI (1.40, 4.50)] integrated with NB-UVB were more efficacious in excellent to complete repigmentation response rate (≥75%). Besides, NB-UVB+ Er: YAG laser+ topical 5% 5-FU [OR = 0.17, 95% CI (0.04, 0.67)] and NB-UVB+ needling/micro-needling [OR = 0.24, 95% CI (0.06, 0.88)] were less likely evaluated as ineffective repigmentation response (≤25%).

CONCLUSIONS

All combination therapies ranked higher than NB-UVB monotherapy in inducing successful repigmentation and avoiding failed treatment in patients with vitiligo. Comprehensive consideration, NB-UVB+ Er: YAG laser+ topical 5% 5-FU and NB-UVB+ needling/microneedling would be the preferred therapeutic approaches.

Efficacy and safety of oral ritlecitinib for the treatment of active nonsegmental vitiligo: A randomized phase 2b clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by depigmented patches of the skin.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ritlecitinib, an oral JAK3 (Janus kinase)/TEC (tyrosine kinase expressed in hepatocelluar carcinoma) inhibitor, in patients with active nonsegmental vitiligo in a phase 2b trial (NCT03715829).

METHODS

Patients were randomized to once-daily oral ritlecitinib ± 4-week loading dose (200/50 mg, 100/50 mg, 30 mg, or 10 mg) or placebo for 24 weeks (dose-ranging period). Patients subsequently received ritlecitinib 200/50 mg daily in a 24-week extension period. The primary efficacy endpoint was percent change from baseline in Facial-Vitiligo Area Scoring Index at week 24.

RESULTS

A total of 364 patients were treated in the dose-ranging period. Significant differences from placebo in percent change from baseline in Facial-Vitiligo Area Scoring Index were observed for the ritlecitinib 50 mg groups with (-21.2 vs 2.1; P < .001) or without (-18.5 vs 2.1; P < .001) a loading dose and ritlecitinib 30 mg group (-14.6 vs 2.1; P = .01). Accelerated improvement was observed after treatment with ritlecitinib 200/50 mg in the extension period (n = 187). No dose-dependent trends in treatment-emergent or serious adverse events were observed across the 48-week treatment.

LIMITATIONS

Patients with stable vitiligo only were excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral ritlecitinib was effective and well tolerated over 48 weeks in patients with active nonsegmental vitiligo.

Review of Ruxolitinib for Treatment of Non-Segmental Vitiligo

OBJECTIVE

To review the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of topical ruxolitinib for treatment of nonsegmental vitiligo.

DATA SOURCES

Literature published between January 1983 and October 2022 was reviewed from MEDLINE and ClinicalTrials.gov.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

Relevant articles in English and data from clinical trials were included.

DATA SYNTHESIS

In 2 phase II trials, treatment with ruxolitinib cream showed significant improvements in Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) scores compared with controls. The 1.5% concentration applied twice daily showed the best results after 52 weeks, with 50% VASI improvement in 58% of patients, 75% VASI improvement in 52% of patients, and 90% VASI improvement in 33% of patients. In 2 phase III trials, more patients achieved at least 75% improvement in facial VASI at 24 weeks (primary endpoint; trial 1: 29.9%, trial 2: 29.9%) than controls (trial 1: 7.5% [P < 0.0001], trial 2: 12.9% [P < 0.01]). Common adverse effects were erythema, pruritus, and acne; all events were mild.

RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE IN COMPARISON TO EXISTING DRUGS

This review summarizes the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety data regarding topical ruxolitinib for vitiligo. Ruxolitinib is associated with significant clinical improvements with low bioavailability and minimal adverse effects compared with conventional topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, and depigmentation agents.

CONCLUSIONS

Ruxolitinib cream is the first therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration for repigmentation of nonsegmental vitiligo. Clinicians should consider these benefits when recommending treatment as conventional therapies may be time-intensive and carry greater risks of adverse effects.

Reliability analysis of a novel measurement system for quantifying human skin color

Background

Precision is crucial in determining the appropriate procedure for implementing further trials. We conducted a study to explore the reliability of a novel measuring system for human skin color.

Methods

The novel skin color measuring system was used to capture the skin color of four volunteers (2 males and 2 females) from the same location on each subject by the same operator. The measurement was repeated for different poses and instrument factors (camera and shooting protocol) in the red, green, and blue (RGB) system. The average color depth in each image was calculated and converted from 0 to 255. The spread of measures and the Bland-Altman plot was displayed to determine each variance source's random error, with the interclass correlation coefficients applied to reflect the reliability.

Result

The RGB color depth in the experiment ranged from 190, 152, and 122 to 208, 170, and 142. The 95% confidential interval of the differences from the means in RGB colors for the different protocols were ±2.8, ±2.6, and ±2.1, respectively. The largest variation in the replicate trials was observed when subjects were in a supine position (standard deviation: 2). The interclass correlation coefficients were greater than 90%, suggesting that the developed system is highly precise.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the developed device could stably and reliably detect human skin color across different common sources of variation, and thus could be applied clinically to explore relationships between health/disease and skin color changes.

LIVING WITH VITILIGO: IMPACT OF THE DISEASE ON THE INDIVIDUALS’ QUALITY OF LIFE

Introduction: Vitiligo is a disease characterized by asymptomatic hypochromic and/or achromic macules, localized or generalized in the integumentary system. The visible depigmentation in the skin of the individual and usually exposed in daily life changes the body image, impacting their quality of life. Objective: To evaluate the quality of life of people living with vitiligo. Method: This is a cross-sectional study carried out with 86 individuals with vitiligo. For data collection, the Vitiligo-Specific Quality-of-Life Instrument questionnaire was used for quality of life. Results: Adult women (81.4%) (mean age 39 years old) with vitiligo had a medium impact on quality of life, and the factors that interfered with quality of life are related to intensified skin care, progression, and appearance of the disease. Conclusion: The vitiligo pathology interfered in the quality of life of adults. The factors that impacted quality of life were intensified skin care in leisure activities, the progression of the disease and the appearance of hypochromic spots.

CONVIVENDO COM O VITILIGO: IMPACTO DA DOENÇA NA QUALIDADE DE VIDA DAS PESSOAS

Introdução:O vitiligo é uma doença caracterizada por máculas hipocrômicas e/ou acrômicas assintomáticas, localizadas ou generalizadas no sistema tegumentar. A despigmentação visível na pele do indivíduo e, usualmente, exposta no cotidiano altera a imagem corporal, impactando na sua qualidade de vida. Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de vida das pessoas que convivem com o vitiligo. Método: Trata-se de um estudo transversal realizado com 86 indivíduos com vitiligo. Para a coleta de dados, utilizou-se o questionário Vitiligo-Specific Quality-of-Life Instrument para a qualidade de vida. Resultados: As mulheres (81,4%) em idade adulta (média de 39 anos) com vitiligo apresentaram médio impacto na qualidade de vida, e os fatores que interferiram na qualidade de vida estão relacionados aos cuidados intensificados com a pele, à progressão e à aparência da patologia. Conclusão: A patologia vitiligo interferiu na qualidade de vida dos indivíduos adultos. Os fatores que impactaram na qualidade de vida foram os cuidados intensificados com a pele em atividades de lazer, a preocupação com a progressão da doença e a aparência das manchas hipocrômicas.