Impact of Vitiligo on Major Life-changing Decisions and Perceived Stigmatization: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disease that profoundly affects patients’ quality of life. A cross--sectional, observational study was conducted with 51 patients using self-administered questionnaires, with the aim to evaluate the impact of vitiligo on major life-changing decisions (MLCDs) as well as on stigmatization using a modified version of the Patient Unique Stigmatization Holistic tool in dermatology (PUSH-D) scale. Results showed that the most affected MLCDs were clothing choices, social interactions, and lifestyle changes. Facial vitiligo was significantly associated with a greater impact on work-related decisions. Factors such as being single, not having children, being female, and longer disease duration were linked to higher impact on life decisions. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing both clinical severity and the psychological burden of vitiligo to improve patient care.