Minor depressive disorder in a patient with vitiligo

Abstract

Introduction: recurrent depressive disorder appears at any age, generated by situations of frustration, separation of loved objects, losses and failures. It is deepened without the patient losing its critical capacity, and may be accompanied by other symptoms. Its incidence is high, and adolescents and young adults are the most affected.

Objective: to present the case of an adolescent patient with recurrent depressive disorder associated to vitiligo, of interest due to its relative frequency of appearance in the Ciego de Ávila province.

Case presentation: male patient, 19 years old, white skin color, with a history of repetitive depressive symptoms. He was treated by the dermatologist for presenting injuries compatible with vitiligo. He also manifested a feeling of loneliness, apathy and insensitivity, and was referred to the psychiatric office. He was diagnosed with a recurrent depressive disorder. Individual and group psychotherapy was indicated, and pharmacological treatment with anxiolytics and antidepressants. His mental health improved, decreasing skin lesions. Follow-up is maintained in psychiatry and dermatology consultations. In the periodic evaluations carried out, there was improvement in his health status.

Conclusions: in a patient with repetitive depressive symptoms and vitiligo lesions in different parts of the body, the possibility of a recurrent depressive disorder should be considered. The diagnosis is confirmed by an adequate questioning. The suggested treatment consists of the use of individual and group psychotherapeutic techniques, together with pharmacological treatment with anxiolytics and antidepressants, and melagenin for skin lesions