Vitiligo and hearing loss

Vitiligo and hearing loss

Vitiligo is a condition where pale white patches develop on the skin. It is caused by the lack of melanin, or melanocytes, which is the pigment in the skin.

Some symptoms include the following:

• Spots and patches of lighter skin, especially on your face, arms, hands or feet
• Patches turn white and itchy
• Lighter patches inside your mouth or nose
• Patches and spots sunburns easily
• Hair turns white or grey
• May develop autoimmune diseases
• Your eye colour may change
• Hearing loss

Treatments include

• Medicines or medicated skin creams, such as corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors
• Phototherapy and other light therapies
• Depigmentation

Vitiligo and hearing loss

The inner ear contains melanocytes. If the body attacks these cells in the ear, a sensorineural hearing loss may occur. Up to 38% of people with vitiligo may experience a hearing loss.

Visit a Dermatologist or your doctor to diagnose and treat your skin.

If you have been diagnosed with vitiligo, an audiological test for early identification and treatment is necessary. Contact us should you need any assistance.