Comparative analysis of the body surface area calculation method used in vitiligo extent score vs the hand unit method used in vitiligo area severity index.

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo Area and Severity Index (VASI) is standing on the top of the cited and implemented scoring tools for vitiligo. However, an easily applicable and time-saving tool has been a need.

AIM

This cross-sectional study aimed at comparing the body surface area (BSA) calculation method used in Vitiligo Extent Score (VES) in comparison with the hand unit method used in VASI and to consider the implementation of VES as a user-friendly tool by doctors as applied to observed clinical patterns of NSV in our population.

METHODS

For each patient with NSV, vitiligo was assessed using both VES and VASI as well as vitiligo disease extent by hand units.

RESULTS

Vitiligo extent score and VASI scores showed a strong significant correlation. Both scores were found reliable in spite of the presence of unrepresented areas in the VES with tendency of the values for the BSA by the VES to be lower than that by hand units.

CONCLUSION

In comparison with VASI, VES has proven to be a clear, user-friendly score for vitiligo assessment. However, special concern is to be given for required modification for pediatric population. A slight modification may be required regarding the pediatric population.