Metabolic syndrome may be associated with vitiligo in different age groups. One study suggests that vitiligo may be a risk factor for metabolic dysfunction, which may warrant the need for screening in some patients.
In the last few decades, links between systemic vitiligo and potential metabolic disturbances have caused some concern.
Based on the criteria of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), metabolic syndrome is characterized by various factors related to metabolic dysfunction, such as the presence of central obesity, elevated blood pressure, elevated fasting blood sugar levels, and elevated triglyceride levels. Previously, it was thought that metabolic syndrome only affected adults, but studies show that children are also at risk. In a recent study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 142 patients with vitiligo older than 6 years and matched controls were evaluated using the IDF criteria and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance. The study was conducted to determine whether metabolic syndrome could be linked to vitiligo in different age groups.
The results showed that vitiligo patients were much more likely than controls to have high fasting plasma glucose levels, high blood pressure readings, central obesity, and dyslipidemia. Moreover, vitiligo patients have significantly higher levels of fasting insulin and insulin resistance. Based on these results, vitiligo was found to be a risk factor for both metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. In addition, univariate and multivariate logistic regression revealed that older age was a significant independent predictor of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance.
Because of these results, people with vitiligo may need to be screened for metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. More research into the prevention, early detection, and management of the associated metabolic complications is needed. It is also suggested that larger-scale, multinational studies be conducted to track the link between vitiligo and metabolic risk.
Source:
Ibrahim, S., El-Tahlawi, S., Mogawer, R. M., El Ansary, M., Esmat, S., & El-Hawary, M. (2022). Different vitiligo characteristics as predictors of increased risk of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance: A case-control study. J Cosmet Dermatol. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.15446
