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The link, treatment, and outlook

In vitiligo, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. The inner ear contains melanocytes, so vitiligo may also affect a person’s hearing.

Patches of discolored skin are a hallmark symptom of vitiligo. However, this condition can affect melanocytes across the body and may also lead to hearing loss.

This article outlines the association between vitiligo and hearing loss, including treatment options, typical outlook, and when to contact a doctor.

The inner ear contains cells called melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin. This pigment is responsible for coloring the skin, hair, and eyes.

In some cases of vitiligo, the immune system mistakenly attacks the melanocytes in the inner ear, causing hearing loss. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests that 12% to 38% of people with vitiligo have some degree of hearing loss.

The cochlea is a spiral-shaped cavity in the inner ear that contains the sensory organ for hearing. The auditory nerve carries nerve impulses from the cochlea to the brain.

A 2022 large-scale study compared rates of SNHL among 13,048 people with vitiligo and 52,192 individuals without the condition. The study suggests that those with vitiligo had more than twice the risk of developing SNHL compared to people without the condition.

The cause of this association is unclear, though it may relate to the destruction of melanocytes in the cochlea. Research in a 2021 study suggests melanocytes may play a role in inner ear function and offer some protective effects against environmental damage.

Because vitiligo can affect the parts of the ear that play a role in hearing and balance, researchers have also investigated how the condition may affect the audio-vestibular system.

For example, a 2021 study compared auditory and vestibular function in 63 people with vitiligo and 63 without the disorder.

Of those in the vitiligo group, 12 people (19%) had some degree of hearing loss, with most of these involving hearing impairments for high-frequency sounds.

Doctors may prescribe an oral corticosteroid called prednisone to help suppress the immune system. This medication is systemic, meaning it works on all parts of the body, including the inner ear.

Other vitiligo treatments

People with vitiligo may also seek treatment for skin depigmentation, which is the main symptom of this condition.

According to the AAD, vitiligo treatments may include the following:

  • Topical medications: Topical medications, including corticosteroids and JAK inhibitors, contain active ingredients that help restore color to depigmented areas of skin.
  • Light therapy: This exposes the skin to UV light that may help restore natural skin color. It is most effective for restoring pigment to the face and neck and typically requires multiple sessions.
  • Surgery: This may involve transplanting pigmented skin or skin cells from one part of the body onto another area. Doctors may reserve surgery for skin depigmentation that does not respond to other treatments.

Some people may also choose not to use the above treatments to restore pigmentation. If someone wishes, a dermatologist can suggest other methods to even out their skin tone, including makeup and self-tanning products.

There is currently no cure for vitiligo. However, treatments can help suppress the immune system, slow the progress of the condition, and may also help people manage hearing loss.

A person needs to speak with a doctor if they develop symptoms of vitiligo since treatment can help slow the condition’s progression. Potential symptoms include:

  • depigmented patches of skin
  • patches or streaks of white hair on areas of the face or body, such as the:
    • scalp
    • eyebrows
    • eyelashes
    • beard
    • other parts of the body with body hair
  • white patches on the mucous membranes, such as those inside the mouth or nose
  • inflammation or swelling of the eyes
  • inflammation in the ear

People with vitiligo also need to contact a doctor if they notice changes to their hearing, including hearing loss, tinnitus, or vertigo.

Treatment for SNHL can help slow the progression of this type of hearing loss and may improve a person’s outlook.

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys melanin-producing cells in the body. These cells exist in tissues such as the skin, eyes, and the inner ear.

As such, people with vitiligo may experience audio-vestibular symptoms, such as hearing loss and vertigo.

Treatments such as oral corticosteroids may help slow vitiligo’s progression. These same medications can also help treat hearing issues due to vitiligo. People with the condition need to consult a doctor if they notice hearing changes.

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