Prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism in patients with vitiligo in a dermatology outpatient clinic in the Amazon

Abstract

Objective: To assess the prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism in patients with vitiligo treated at a dermatology referral center in the Amazon, describing their sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics. Methods: This was a quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional study conducted through the analysis of physical and electronic medical records of patients diagnosed with vitiligo and subclinical hypothyroidism, treated between August 2024 and April 2025 at a specialized dermatology referral center in the Amazon. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, with absolute and relative frequencies. Results: A total of 188 medical records were evaluated, and seven patients were included; 57.1% were female and 100% were mixed race. All patients had elevated TSH levels with normal free T4, and 42.9% were positive for anti-TPO. Vitamin D deficiency was observed in 42.9% of cases, in addition to comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension. No patient was being treated for subclinical hypothyroidism. Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of screening thyroid function in patients with vitiligo, especially in regions with limited socioeconomic status and limited access to health services, such as the Amazon.