What is the treatment for vitiligo?

Q. What is the treatment for vitiligo?

Answered by
Dr. Jyotisterna Mittal
and medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team.
This is a premium question & answer published on Dec 06, 2017 and last reviewed on: Jun 30, 2023

Hi doctor,

I have been suffering from a skin problem for a long time four years. They are white patches. I have taken treatment from a few doctors. Doctors have asked me to apply some lotion and show sunlight to them. They also gave me some blue light therapy but I developed blisters after that. So, they stopped the treatment. They are mostly on my hands, feet, and shins. My past medication includes drugs called Methoxalen lotion mixed in water and some tablets called Aciloc, Zempred 4, and Shelcal. My friend advised me of ayurvedic treatment for the same, but during treatment, the spots started spreading to my feet. So, I just stopped it. My CBC was normal, SGPT 24, SPOT 12, and creatinine 0.64. I am fed up. Please help.

#

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query in detail and do understand your concern. I also viewed the attached pictures (attachment removed to protect patient identity).


Probable diagnosis:

As you already know, these are patches of vitiligo. This disease can be effectively treated.

Treatment plan:

1. The blue light you are referring to should be NB-UVB (narrow band ultraviolet B) chamber treatment which is quite effective and safe modality.

2. The blisters can be easily managed by decreasing the duration of exposure. The only drawback is that you will have to visit the dermatologist every alternate day, which seems to be difficult for you.

3. Also, you are applying Melanocyl lotion (Methoxsalen). Since how long are you applying it? Did it have any good effect?

4. Another option is tablet Melanocyl. The usual dose is 20 mg on alternate days. Two hours later, sunlight exposure is given for 10-15 minutes.

5, Biopeptides, topical steroids, etc., can be given.

6. Skin grafting can be carried out.

7. Let me know what dose of Zempred 4 mg (Methylprednisolone) you are on? How many tablets per day and since how long?

8. Please send me photographs of the previous dermatologist's treatments you have taken so that further management can be planned.

9. Also tell me whether lesions are currently increasing or are they stable? If stable, since how long?

Regarding follow up:

Revert back with the answers to a dermatologist online.---> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/dermatologist


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