Vitiligo therapy

Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2009 Dec;10(17):2779-85. doi: 10.1517/14656560903357509.

Abstract

Vitiligo can be treated using various new and experimental therapies, such as narrow-band ultraviolet B microphototherapy (NB-UVB), narrow-band ultraviolet B excimer laser and monochromatic excimer light. The first is recommended for generalized vitiligo, whereas the latter two are indicated in patients affected by segmental and bilateral symmetrical vitiligo with < 20% cutaneous involvement. Medical treatments include topical corticosteroids and other topical treatments, such as antioxidants, tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, prostaglandin E, and vitamin D derivatives. Excellent therapeutic results can be achieved through combination treatments; surgical intervention is reserved for adolescent or adult patients with stable vitiligo.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / administration & dosage
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Photochemotherapy
  • Photosensitizing Agents / administration & dosage
  • Photosensitizing Agents / therapeutic use
  • Vitiligo / drug therapy*
  • Vitiligo / surgery

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Photosensitizing Agents