Hypoacusis in vitiligo.

BACKGROUND: Vitiligo affects melanocytes in the skin. Since melanocytes are present in other organs as well, it is plausible that they may be similarly affected. METHODS: A comparative study of audiological functions was carried out in 180 patients of vitiligo and 60 non-vitiligo controls in the age group of 5-40 years. RESULTS: In vitiligo patients sensorineural hypoacusis of mild degree was found in 18, moderate in 13 and mild conductive hypoacusis in 3. In controls sensorineural hypoacusis of mild degree was found in only 2 cases. CONCLUSION: The difference between the two groups was statistically significant. Vitiligo patients have a higher prevalence of sensorineural hypoacusis.