%0 Journal Article
%T Identifying the genetic association between common rheumatic diseases and vitiligo.
%A Zhao M
%A Zhang Y
%A Sun G
%J Skin Res Technol
%V 30
%N 7
%D 2024 Jul
%M 38967217
%F 2.24
%R 10.1111/srt.13846
%X <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Although observational studies have suggested a correlation between vitiligo and rheumatic diseases, conclusive evidence supporting a causal relationship is still lacking. Therefore, this study aims to explore the potential causal relationship between vitiligo and rheumatic diseases.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>Using genome-wide association studies, we performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. In our analysis, the random-effects inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was predominantly employed, followed by several sensitivity analyses, which include heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy, outliers, and "leave-one-out" analyses.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>The genetically predicted vitiligo was associated with an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (OR, 1.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.29-1.68; p < 0.001), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.06-1.39; p = 0.005). The causal associations were supported by sensitivity analyses. In Sjögren's syndrome and ankylosing spondylitis, no causal relationship with vitiligo was found in the study.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Our MR results support the causal effect that vitiligo leads to a higher risk of RA and SLE. Individuals with vitiligo should be vigilant for the potential development of RA and SLE. Managing and addressing this potential requires regular monitoring.