Co-Occurrence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Patients with Vitiligo: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background/Aims: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, increasingly common condition linked to other autoimmune disorders, including vitiligo. This study aims to assess IBD co-occurrence in vitiligo patients to explore underlying immunogenetic factors and inform better screening and management.

Materials and Methods: A systematic search was conducted across Scopus, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Embase, to identify relevant studies published up to March 31, 2025. Studies examining the prevalence of IBD and its subtypes in patients with vitiligo wereincluded. Data were extracted and pooled using random effects models, with heterogeneity assessed through Cochran’s Q test andHiggins I2 test.

Results: A total of 16 studies with 44 records were included in the analysis. The pooled prevalence of IBD was 0.97% (95% CI: 0.69-1.25),with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) reported at 0.45% (0.32-0.59) and 0.69% (0.42-0.97), respectively. Also, vitiligowas significantly associated with an increased risk of IBD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.10-2.07), particularly for CD (OR = 1.49, 95%CI: 1.13-1.97). The pooled prevalence of IBD varied across countries, with the highest prevalence reported in Saudi Arabia. Additionally,women with vitiligo had a slightly higher pooled prevalence of IBD compared to men.

Conclusion: This study found that the prevalence of IBD in patients with vitiligo is approximately 0.97%, with vitiligo significantly increasing the risk of developing IBD, particularly CD. Clinicians should consider IBD in the differential diagnosis of vitiligo patients withgastrointestinal symptoms.

Cite this article as: Gu Z, Teng J. Co-occurrence of inflammatory bowel disease in patients with vitiligo: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Turk J Gastroenterol. 2026;37(1):3-14