Vitiligo Patients Likely Prone to Abnormal Eye Health Issues

Patients afflicted with vitiligo often have significant differences in Schirmer test results, lens, and fundus findings.

The Schirmer’s test determines whether the eye produces enough tears to keep it moist.

In a study published in the March issue of the International Journal of Dermatology, Remzi Karadag, MD, Istanbul Medeniyet University, and colleagues analyzed “ocular manifestations” in 61 vitiligo patients and 57 individuals in the control group.

The team conducted a variety of eye tests including otorefractometry, keratometry, visual acuity test, intraocular pressure measurement, anterior segment, and fundus examination with slit lamp, Schirmer test, and perimetry.

Upon examination, the researchers discovered the average Schirmer test results for patients were 6.74 ± 9.11 mm and 17.64 ± 9.41 mm for the right and left eye, respectively, compared with 21.96 ± 12.51 mm and 23.42 ± 12.51 mm for the right and left eye of the individuals in the control group, respectively.

Furthermore, 36 vitiligo patients exhibited lenticular findings and 29 showed findings for fundus.

While this is no doubt research that warrants further studies, the authors concluded, “Patients with vitiligo may have more lenticular and retinal findings than normal. They can be more prone to dry eye syndrome as well.”