Quality of life in family members of vitiligo patients: A questionnaire study in Saudi Arabia

Background: Many dermatologic disorders are known to adversely affect quality of life (QoL) in close relatives or partners of patients; however, it is unknown whether vitiligo impacts the QoL of family members. Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the level and domains in which the QoL of partners/relatives of patients with vitiligo are affected by the disease. Methods: A total of 141 patients with vitiligo, along with their family members, were recruited to complete validated QoL questionnaires, including the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI). Results: Family member QoL was affected in 129 (91.5 %) of subjects. Mean FDLQI score was 10.3 ± 6.4 standard deviation. Higher FDLQI score (greater impairment in QoL) was significantly associated with male patients, a shorter duration of disease, and higher educational levels in family members. The most affected FDLQI items in order of decreasing incidence were emotional impact, burden of care, impact on the physical well-being of the family member, problems due to the reaction of others in response to the patient's skin appearance and effect on social life. Overall FDLQI score and the number of items affected correlated with overall patient DLQI score (p < 0.001, r = 0.56 and p < 0.001, r = 0.53, respectively). Conclusions: Vitiligo has a major impact on the QoL of family members of patients and often significantly impairs many aspects of their lives. Educational and supportive programs are recommended for family members of vitiligo patients who are at an increased risk for QoL impairments.