Could there be a possible link between vitiligo and fibromyalgia syndrome?

Abstract

Objective: In this study, it was aimed to determine the frequency of Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) in vitiligo patients and to evaluate its relation with clinical parameters. Methods: Thirty-five generalized vitiligo patients and 45 sex- and age-matched healthy controls were included in the study. Participant’s demographic and clinical characteristics were determined. All participants were questioned in detail from the point of symptoms and signs of FMS. Clinical and functional evaluations were performed with Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), visual analogue scale and hospital anxiety and depression scales (HADS). Results: Vitiligo patients’ fatigue, depression, anxiety and sleep quality scores were significantly higher (p<0.05). The frequency of FMS was significantly high in patients with vitiligo than in controls (34.3% vs 11.1%, p=0.015). The vitiligo patients with FMS had higher pain, fatigue, stiffness, FIQ, VASI, HADS and PSQI scores (p<0.05). Significant correlations were obtained between vitiligo severity and clinical parameters. FIQ, VASI, HADS and PSQI scores were detected as an important indicator which a sign of the presence of FMS in vitiligo patients. Conclusion: This study revealed that the frequency of FMS was significantly higher in patients with vitiligo. While the presence of FMS deteriorates the psychological state and sleep quality in vitiligo patients, it also exacerbates the severity of the disease. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of the FMS, which can worsen the clinical and functional status on vitiligo patients.