Vitiligo in Rivers State: A Retrospective Survey of Two Tertiary Cutaneous Clinics

Stella AE, Nnenda AM and Fortuna PE

Published on: 2025-05-08

Abstract

Background: Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterized by patches on the skin [1].   The prevalence of vitiligo varies from 2-6% in different parts of Nigeria. Globally the prevalence of vitiligo is estimated to be 0.1-2%. Vitiligo is characterized by a lot of social stigmatization often confused with leprosy. This study aims to determine the incidence of vitiligo in Rivers State by surveying the two tertiary health institutions where there are dermatologists that manage vitiligo patients. It also aimed at comparing findings with studies done in Nigeria and globally.

Materials and Method: The study population consisted of newly diagnosed cases of vitiligo including those with the possibility of other differential diagnoses at the dermatology outpatient clinics of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) from January 2006-December 2015 and at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) Port Harcourt from January 2012- December 2023.

Results: The incidence of vitiligo in RSUTH was 0.021(21 cases per 1000 persons) and in UPTH 0.037 (37 cases per 1000 persons). There was female preponderance in each institution -RSUTH (57.5%) and UPTH (53.9%). In RSUTH the 30-39 age group had the highest frequency with mean age of 39.5 years. In UPTH the 20-29 age group had the highest frequency with mean age of 28.4 years. Satisfactory treatment outcome was seen in 5% of RSUTH and 0.45% of UPTH patients. Chronic medical conditions seen were mainly hypothyroidism and hypertension.

Conclusion: The results of this study was comparable to others within the same region and globally. Psycho-social support is key in the management of affected persons.