Stigmatization experience, coping and sense of coherence in vitiligo patients.

OBJECTIVE: This study examines the extent of stigmatization experienced by vitiligo patients considering the visibility of the lesions.

METHODS: 363 vitiligo patients were assessed using the Experience with Skin Complaints (QES), Adjustment to Chronic Skin Disorders (ASC), and Sense of Coherence (SOC) questionnaires. Out of the total patients group two representative samples with 52 patients each were identified comparable for age, gender, and the duration of the skin disease, the first with visible and the second with invisible lesions.

RESULTS: Data indicate a significant negative correlation between the QES dimensions, except for 'Composure', and between coping scales with sense of coherence withstanding. The 'visible lesions' group scored higher compared to the 'invisible lesions' group on the two QES scales 'Self-Esteem' and 'Refusal', i.e., patients with visible lesions experienced a higher level of stigmatization.

CONCLUSION: This study provides new information which supports the notion that the stigmatization experience of vitiligo patients is psychologically relevant.