Advanced Treatment Modalities for Vitiligo

Author: Patel Nishit S.   Paghdal Kapila V.   Cohen George F.  

Publisher: Elsevier

ISSN: 1076-0512

Source: Dermatologic Surgery, Vol.38, Iss.3, 2012-03, pp. : 381-391

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Abstract

BackgroundVitiligo is an acquired multifocal and polygenic dyschromia that affects 1% to 3% of the world and presents as multiple depigmented macules and patches. Traditionally, the treatment of vitiligo has focused on pharmacologic interventions, but nearly half of all treated patients fail to respond successfully.
ObjectiveSeveral advanced techniques exist that can aid dermatologists in treating vitiligo in patients who do not respond favorably to traditional pharmacologic treatments. These advanced interventions include the use of the 308-nm excimer laser, total body depigmentation therapy with monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone, microdermabrasion, micropigmentation, khellin-UVA therapy, and surgical management using miniature punch grafting, suction blister grafting, and epidermal cultures.
Materials and MethodsThis article reviews the current literature on these advanced treatment modalities for vitiligo and provides a practical guide for application of these techniques.
Results and ConclusionOur ability to treat vitiligo may be imperfect, but through appropriate patient selection and careful application of one or more of these advanced therapies, successful treatment of vitiligo, even in patients refractory to treatment, can be achieved.