Can vitiligo affect the periodontal status of a diabetic patient? A case report

Abstract

Periodontitis is a microorganism-driven and host-mediated disease that leads to loss of periodontal attachment and alveolar bone. It is a highly prevalent disease with multiple etiological and risk factors. Vitiligo is a disorder which affects the production and function of melanocytes. Total absence or reduced number of melanocytes can be a risk factor for periodontitis. However, there is a lack of sufficient evidence about the relationship of vitiligo with periodontitis.Similarly, Type 2 Diabetes is a highly prevalent chronic non-communicable disease with periodontitis as one of its complications.Here, we are reporting a case of periodontitis in a known patient of diabetes and vitiligo. The aim of this report is to create awareness about the probable association between diabetes, vitiligo and periodontitis.