The Ocular Disorders Observed in Patients with Vitiligo

Background : Vitiligo is a common disorder caused by a loss of epidermal pigment cells. The pigment cells in the skin and uveal tract are similar in their physiology and morphology and share a common embryologic origin. Object : The purpose of our study was to determine the nature of the relationship between vitiligo and ocular disease. Methods : Fifty-two patients with vitiligo were examined for ocular abnormalities. Results : There were 17ocular abnormalities our study; 5 fundal focal hypopigmented spots (9.6%), 6 iris pigment clumps(11.5%), and 6 lens opacity(11.5%). Conclusion : We believe that vitiligo may affect pigment cells in the eye. Therefore, all patients with vitiligo should have ocular examinations.