A dermatologic approach covering topical therapies, narrow-band UVB phototherapy, systemic treatment, and surgical pigmentation methods used in vitiligo.
Indication
- Localized, segmental, or widespread (generalized) vitiligo lesions
- Loss of pigment on the face, back of the hands, mucosa, and genital area
- Halting disease progression in rapidly advancing vitiligo
- Childhood vitiligo cases suitable for topical therapy
- Goal of repigmentation in stable vitiligo
- Evaluation of accompanying autoimmune conditions
Preparation
- Complete dermatologic examination and, if needed, mapping with a Wood's lamp
- Laboratory evaluations such as thyroid function, B12, ferritin
- Documentation of previously used treatments and their durations
- Determination of skin type (Fitzpatrick) prior to UVB phototherapy
- Inquiry about use of photosensitizing medications
How it's performed
- Topical treatments: corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors are applied for defined periods
- Narrow-band UVB phototherapy: 2-3 sessions per week in a special booth, with doses titrated individually
- Systemic therapy: short-term oral treatment options for rapidly progressing cases
- Targeted light therapy (excimer): local application for small lesions
- Surgical methods: mini skin grafting, melanocyte transfer in stable cases
- Treatment plan is tailored to the individual, lesion type, and duration
Post-procedure
- Initial response is generally evaluated 3-6 months later
- Maintaining regular session continuity during phototherapy is important
- Sun protection and photoprotective measures
- Repigmentation mapping at follow-up examinations
- Periodic screening for accompanying autoimmune diseases
- Psychosocial support and patient education
Risks
- Skin thinning with long-term use of topical corticosteroids
- Redness, dryness, and rare burns with UVB phototherapy
- Accelerated skin aging with long-term phototherapy
- Possibility of not achieving the targeted response
- Risk of donor-recipient site scarring with surgical methods
FAQ
Is vitiligo contagious?
Vitiligo is not a contagious disease. It is known that autoimmune and genetic factors play a role.
Does treatment work?
Response varies by individual, lesion location, and duration. The face and recent lesions generally respond better.
How long does treatment take?
The treatment process is generally measured in months. A patient follow-up of 3-6 months may be needed for a meaningful response.
Which treatment is suitable for children?
In children, topical therapies and carefully planned narrow-band UVB options are evaluated first; treatment is tailored to age and extent.
Related Information
Related Medical Services
Other services in the same specialty or with similar indications you may want to explore.
Phototherapy
Dermatology
Phototherapy — treatment of skin conditions with controlled ultraviolet light.
Eczema/Dermatitis Treatment
Dermatology
Eczema/dermatitis treatment — a personalized medical approach to atopic, contact and seborrheic dermatitis.
PRP Therapy
Dermatology
PRP therapy — application of plasma obtained from the patient's own platelets for the scalp and skin.
Mesotherapy
Dermatology
Mesotherapy — a medical treatment in which a mixture of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids is delivered into the skin.
Dermatologic Examination
Dermatology
Dermatologic examination — clinical evaluation of skin, hair, and nail conditions.
Cryotherapy
Dermatology
Cryotherapy (freezing therapy) — treatment of skin lesions by freezing with liquid nitrogen.
Dermatologic Laser Treatment
Dermatology
Dermatologic laser treatment — targeted light therapy for skin conditions.
Acne Treatment
Dermatology
Acne treatment — personalized medical management based on the stage of the disease.