Use of complementary and alternative medicine in vitiligo: a cross-sectional survey.

ABSTRACT

Vitiligo is characterized by skin depigmentation, which can lead to profound psychological effects and decreased quality of life, especially for those with skin of color. Individuals with vitiligo may utilize complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) due to limited treatment options with varying efficacy.An anonymous, multiple-choice, cross-sectional questionnaire was distributed to participants with vitiligo in the United States through online forums. Data on disease characteristics, use of prescription medications, use of topical therapies, supplements, and diets, and perceptions of CAM were collected.In total, 625 respondents completed the survey. Overall, 32.5% of participants (203/625) have tried CAM. Commonly reported CAM include supplements of vitamin D (57.7%, 116/203), vitamin B12 (46.3%, 93/203), vitamin C (27.4%, 55/203), topical Nigella sativa oil (26.4%, 53/203), oral omega-3 fatty acids (24.9%, 50/203), folic acid (22.9%, 46/203), and vitamin E (22.9%, 46/203). Frequently cited reasons for CAM use include desire to try "new" (40.4%, 82/203) or "more natural" (26.6%, 54/203) therapies, "frustration with conventional medicine" (24.6%, 50/203), and fear of "adverse side effects of conventional medicine" (23.6%, 48/203). Non-White participants were more likely than their White counterparts to report CAM use and have more positive perceptions of CAM therapies. Less than half (43.3%, 88/203) of CAM users reported that they disclosed their use of CAM with their physician.Dermatologists should be mindful of CAM and ask patients about their use. Further investigation of the role of CAM as adjuvant therapy for vitiligo is warranted to better advise patients.