Prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities and treatment initiation in African American pediatric patients with vitiligo: A retrospective, single-center, case-control study

Abstract

Background

Vitiligo may impact psychosocial development, especially among African American pediatric patients, given heightened visibility and increasing rates of anxiety and depression in this subpopulation.

Objective

Evaluate psychiatric comorbidities and treatment initiation in African American pediatric patients.

Methods

A total of 327 African American pediatric patients with vitiligo were each matched to 3 patients without vitiligo by age, race, and sex in this case-control study. Prevalence of psychiatric conditions and subsequent initiation of pharmacotherapy and/or psychotherapy were analyzed.

Results

Compared to controls, pediatric African American patients with vitiligo were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with depression (P < .001) disruptive behavior disorders (P < .001), eating disorders (P = .013), generalized anxiety disorder (P < .001), substance abuse (P = .011), and suicidal ideation (P = .005). Patients with depression, disruptive behavior disorders, and eating disorders had higher initiation rates (76.5%, 82.1%, and 100%, respectively) for psychiatric treatment compared to those with generalized anxiety disorder and substance abuse (55.3% and 61.5%). Nearly 15% of patients did not initiate treatment for suicidal ideation.

Limitations

This retrospective study has a limited sample size in a single institution and does not explore psychiatric treatment efficacy.

Conclusions

Better understanding of associated psychological comorbidities and impacts on African American children of vitiligo may improve quality of life and dermatologic outcomes for these individuals.