What are the treatment methods for vitiligo?

Jul 19, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Hello, I am 28 years old and have had vitiligo for half a year. I haven't been cured yet and would like to know what treatment options are available for vitiligo.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Vitiligo, also known as leukoderma, is mainly treated through the following methods: 1. **Medication therapy**: Topical corticosteroid preparations such as halometasone ointment and flumetasone ointment are used, especially for skin lesions covering less than 10% of the body surface area. Additionally, calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, as well as vitamin D3 derivatives like calcipotriol ointment may be selected. For certain patients, doctors may recommend oral medications, such as low-dose corticosteroids or immunomodulatory drugs, to control disease progression. 2. **Phototherapy**: Treatments using ultraviolet radiation, such as UVB and PUVA therapy, can promote regeneration and differentiation of melanocytes and improve the skin color of depigmented areas. Localized phototherapy includes narrowband medium-wave ultraviolet light (NB-UVB) and 308-nm excimer laser therapy. 3. **Surgical treatment**: For patients with small or stable vitiligo patches, skin grafting surgery may be considered. This involves transplanting normally pigmented skin to the depigmented areas to promote repigmentation. 4. **Psychological therapy**: Vitiligo can significantly affect a patient's appearance and psychological well-being. Therefore, timely psychological support and counseling are crucial to help patients alleviate stress and anxiety.