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Background Vitiligo is a prevalent skin disease that results from the loss of melanocytes and subsequent hypo-melanosis, resulting in the depigmentation of the skin. It not only presents as pathological manifestations but also imposes a substantial psychological burden and exerts a significant influence on the quality of life (QOL) of individuals. This research proposal seeks to systematically explore the association between vitiligo and the QOL of affected individuals, employing rigorous scientific methodologies to identify effective interventions aimed at improving their holistic well-being. Methodology It was a cross-sectional survey conducted in the Eastern Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Data collection utilizes an online survey through Google Forms and employs the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Appropriate statistical analyses were performed. Results Our study comprised 263 vitiligo patients, 55.1% of whom were females and 54.4% of whom were aged 18-30. Impact assessment revealed a substantial emotional toll (56.3% embarrassed), affecting daily activities (42.6%) and clothing choices (43.7%). Notably, 36.5% reported very much impact on relationships and 35.7% on sexual problems. Notably, 41.4% face a very large impact, and 35.4% face an extremely large impact. Linear regression identified a significant gender difference (p = 0.008), with males experiencing less QOL impact or females experiencing more QOL impact due to vitiligo. Age and marital status showed nonsignificant associations. Conclusions Our study highlights the substantial impact of vitiligo on the QOL among Saudi adults. Gender significantly influences severity, with females experiencing a more severe impact on the QoL, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions and support.
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Spitz naevus (SN) are benign melanocytic lesions, which are classified into solitary, agminated, or disseminated forms. The most common form is solitary SN, typically occurring on the face and extremities of children. However, the disseminated SN is a rare presentation that can be either rapid eruptive or non-eruptive. The eruptive disseminated Spitz naevus (EDSN) often develops between the ages of 10 and 20 and affects nearly the whole-body surface, beginning in the trunk and/or extremities. Without prior reports from the population of Saudi Arabia, this eruptive SN has reportedly impacted native Alaskans (Americans), Koreans, Pakistanis, African Americans, and Hispanics. Eruptive disseminated SNs are rare, with only 27 cases having been reported in the literature. This article presents another case of EDSN.
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Introduction Herpes zoster (HZ), caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), poses a public health concern in Saudi Arabia, with an increasing number of cases reported in recent years. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and acceptance of the herpes zoster vaccine among Saudi Arabian citizens in Al-Ahsa. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using online surveys administered via social media platforms. The study was conducted in Al-Ahsa, a city located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Al-Ahsa serves as a representative urban area within Saudi Arabia. Result The study found a high level of awareness and knowledge about the vaccine, with 78.2% of the participants having heard of herpes zoster. The majority considered the vaccine effective (89%) and believed it was available in Saudi Arabia (87%). However, the vaccination rate was only 8%. The study revealed varied opinions on the target population for vaccination, with 39.7% favoring immunocompromised patients and 38.1% choosing individuals above 50 years. The reasons for not being vaccinated included a lack of information (38.3%) and the belief of being in good health (37.3%). Conclusion The findings suggest a need for targeted educational campaigns to address misconceptions and promote vaccination, particularly among healthcare providers and the recommended target populations. Future research should explore barriers to vaccination to inform tailored interventions.
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Background Mycosis fungoides (MF) is one of the primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas and is considered to be the most common extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphomas. MF is characterized by different subtypes based on clinical presentation and immunophenotyping studies. We aimed to study the clinical patterns and treatment response in cases of MF among the patients attending a tertiary referral hospital in Saudi Arabia. Methodology A retrospective study, case record-based study was done to review all the patients diagnosed with MF from January 2011 to May 2016. All cases with histopathological confirmation and immunophenotyping were included in the study. Treatment follow-up was reviewed for 9 months in all cases. Treatment response was graded based on a global physician assessment-complete response, good response, moderate response, and minimal or no response. Results Out of 34 cases of MF included in the study, 11 were hyperpigmented MF, 21 were hypopigmented MF, and there was one case each of poikilodermatous MF and pagetoid reticulosis. Of the total, fourteen (66.7%) of hypopigmented MF patients showed a complete response to phototherapy Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) in combination with topical corticosteroids. Nine (81.8%) of hyperpigmented MF patients showed partial to the phototherapy NB-UVB in combination with the topical corticosteroid. Among the other types; one case of poikilodermatous MF (2.9%) showed a moderate response to phototherapy NB-UVB with topical corticosteroid and systemic acitretin. Conclusions The most common type of MF seen in our study was the hypopigmented type, affecting a younger age group, and the same showed a good response to phototherapy NB-UVB combined with topical corticosteroids.