Vitiligo: new and emerging treatments

Dermatol Ther. 2008 Mar-Apr;21(2):110-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1529-8019.2008.00178.x.

Abstract

Vitiligo is a cosmetically disfiguring condition, and, although there is no therapeutic full solution yet, some treatment may induce good results in most patients. The disease can be successfully treated with various medical options. Both nonfocused or focused narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy represents the current treatment of choice, to minimize side effects and reach optimal clinical results. Topical novel approaches are also considered. Surgical methods, consisting of autologous transplantation methods, is generally recommended for focal/stable vitiligo, after medical therapy has failed. Finally, for patients with extensive vitiligo, depigmentation of the residual melanin should be taken into account.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Antioxidants / administration & dosage
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use*
  • Dermatologic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Dermatology* / trends
  • Humans
  • Patient Selection
  • Skin Pigmentation / drug effects
  • Skin Pigmentation / radiation effects
  • Skin Transplantation* / trends
  • Transplantation, Autologous
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ultraviolet Therapy* / trends
  • Vitiligo / drug therapy
  • Vitiligo / physiopathology
  • Vitiligo / radiotherapy
  • Vitiligo / surgery
  • Vitiligo / therapy*

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Dermatologic Agents