Vitiligo and Its Impacts Across Ages

This comprehensive literature review aimed to understand the influence of age on the presentation, comorbidities, psychological impact, and treatment response in patients with vitiligo. The review highlighted that vitiligo tends to manifest later in males than in females, with unique characteristics associated with early and late-onset types. We observed a high psychosocial burden, particularly in early-onset vitiligo, associated with decreased quality of life, social withdrawal, and increased mental health issues. Our findings confirmed the frequent co-occurrence of vitiligo with autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, particularly thyroid diseases and alopecia areata. In examining quality of life and mental health, we noted a significant impact of vitiligo across all age groups, influenced by factors such as lesion visibility and location, gender, and socioeconomic status. We further highlighted an elevated risk of depression and anxiety across age groups, particularly in children and adolescents due to peer stigmatization and bullying, while adults experienced higher levels of social anxiety. Regarding treatment options, our review indicated a positive clinical response across a variety of interventions, with the duration of disease seemingly influencing the success of treatment. The location of vitiligo lesions significantly affected repigmentation timing and extent, and the influence of age on treatment outcomes, while implied, requires further exploration. Overall, this review underscores the importance of a holistic treatment approach that encompasses not only physical symptoms but also the mental health needs of vitiligo patients that are age appropriate.