Treatment of vitiligo varies widely and depends on the severity of the condition. They include surgery, Janus kinase inhibitors, light therapy, and medications. In this article, we will cover the basics of each treatment option. Then, read on to learn more about the different treatments available for vitiligo and which one may be right for you.
Surgical Procedure
The surgical procedure for treating vitiligo involves transplanting skin cells from a donor site onto the affected area. This procedure is known as cellular grafting, resulting in uniform pigmentation and no cobblestoning. The procedure uses autologous non-cultured epidermal cell suspensions harvested from the donor site. These cells are then processed and transformed before being applied to the affected area.
The main goal of a surgical procedure for treating vitiligo is to obtain a cosmetically acceptable level of repigmentation. Although autologous melanocyte transplantation has shown promising results, it cannot reverse the progression of the disease. Therefore, surgical vitiligo treatment is only indicated for patients with stable or resistant vitiligo. Surgical treatments can be performed by a surgeon with experience and specialized equipment.
Depigmented macules and high psychosocial impact characterize vitiligo. While medical therapies can induce repigmentation in most cases, surgical procedures are necessary when other treatments have failed. In cases of segmental vitiligo, surgical methods may be the only effective option. The basic principle of surgical treatment is the grafting of viable melanocytes from donor skin. Various grafting techniques have been used, including tissue grafts and cellular grafts.
Janus Kinase Inhibitors
Janus kinase inhibitors (JAK) are an alternative treatment for vitiligo. However, the FDA has not approved the drug yet. Researchers hope to improve its effectiveness over time. The JAK inhibitors are safe for the anatomic sites.
The Janus kinases are cytoplasmic tyrosine kinases that aid in signal transduction through the JAK/STAT pathway. Several family members regulate gene expression and contribute to the pathophysiology of many diseases. Therefore, the JAK inhibitors, which target this pathway, show promising efficacy in treating vitiligo.
Vitiligo is a common autoimmune disorder that causes depigmented areas on the skin and mucosae. Current treatments for this condition include systemic steroids, which can be associated with severe side effects. However, recent studies have revealed that the JAK-STAT signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of vitiligo.
The JAK inhibitor ruxolitinib cream has shown promise in the treatment of vitiligo. In a randomized trial, this drug effectively treated vitiligo and significantly reduced the severity index of the affected areas.
Light Therapy
Light therapy for vitiligo involves exposure to different light wavelengths to improve the skin’s appearance. It can help treat vitiligo symptoms and reduce the appearance of aging signs. The treatment occurs in a dark room, and patients may be given topical photosynthesizing medications before treatment. Treatment sessions may last from fifteen minutes to two hours. Patients may need recurring appointments to see full improvement.
One of the most effective treatments for vitiligo is narrow-band UVB light therapy, which involves a series of weekly sessions. However, light therapy can be time-consuming, and patients must consider the time involved in traveling to and from the dermatologist’s office. Furthermore, the results can reverse if patients do not consistently follow the treatment schedule.
Light therapy for vitiligo is one of the most common treatments available today. However, depending on the severity of the condition, it can lead to repigmentation in as little as three months. In most cases, full repigmentation will take as long as two or three years.
Medications
Medications for vitiligo are available in the market. It is a disorder that affects the skin’s pigment cells. The condition generally starts with small patches on the face, forearms, and hands and can spread to other body areas. Sometimes it can even affect the iris of the eye. It can affect both men and women equally and is a chronic and progressive disease. It usually occurs before the age of 40.
Another medication for vitiligo is ruxolitinib. The drug is an analog of the alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, and it has shown promising results when used in combination with phototherapy. Although the FDA has not approved it for treating vitiligo, this drug has been shown to reduce the immune response by blocking certain enzymes. Ruxolitinib is a cream a patient applies twice daily to the affected area. It can take up to 24 weeks to see satisfactory results.
To improve the appearance of vitiligo, doctors will often prescribe a combination of medications. First, corticosteroid creams can help regain color to depigmented areas, but they must be started early in the disease. This medication is costly and can take months to show positive results. Also, it may cause skin dryness and abnormal darkening of the membrane covering the whites of the eye.
