OBJECTIVES: Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system destroys melanocytes, leading to white patches on the skin, often leading to significant quality of life challenges. Despite advancements in treatment, discrepancies remain between clinical outcomes and patient-reported quality of life. This study aims to investigate patient preferences and the specific importance patients place on treatment attributes. By understanding these preferences, the study seeks to bridge the gap between clinical measures and patient experiences, focusing on minimal important differences (MIDs).

METHODS: The study discusses the concept of MID and how health preference research can help analyze these in the context of vitiligo. Conducting a literature review on topical treatment alternatives aimed at repigmentation. Performing qualitative interviews with vitiligo patients (N = 5). Creating a list of decision-relevant attributes, focusing on affected body regions, size of white patches, and grade of depigmentation, aligned with the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index. Developing a survey using a best-worst-scaling case 3 approach. Employing a fractional-factorial efficient design to optimize the combination of attribute levels presented to participants. Planned sample size for quantitative elicitation is 150 patients which was determined to ensure robust and reliable results.

RESULTS: This presentation will elaborate on how the health preference task, as outlined in the study protocol, is designed to elicit preferences, and capture the MIDs for vitiligo patients. By focusing on preferences regarding the body region, depigmentation degree, and size of white patches, the study aims to inform clinical decision-making and research. The goal is to standardize outcome measures in clinical trials and practice, ensuring that treatment advancements are both clinically effective and meaningful to patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Understanding minimal important differences that vitiligo patients prioritize through health preference research can lead to more patient-centered treatment approaches. This study demonstrates how to bridge the gap between clinical outcomes and quality of life.