FAQIs it possible to stop the progression of vitiligo?

FAQ

While it's not always possible to quickly stop vitiligo progression, there are some treatments that can help slow or halt the spread of the condition in many cases:

Corticosteroids

Oral corticosteroids like prednisone can help slow down the disease when it's spreading rapidly. For example:

  • Low-dose oral prednisolone (0.3 mg/kg) taken daily for 2 months
  • High dose intravenous methylprednisolone (8 mg/kg) administered on 3 consecutive days

These regimens have been reported to halt disease progression in more than 85% of cases.

Topical Treatments

Topical corticosteroids, when used early, can be effective in slowing or stopping vitiligo progression, especially for recently developed vitiligo. Tacrolimus ointment or pimecrolimus cream are also options that can be used for a longer duration than corticosteroids.

JAK Inhibitors

The recently approved topical JAK inhibitor, ruxolitinib cream, has shown promise in halting vitiligo progression. Oral JAK inhibitors like baricitinib, upadacitinib, and povorcitinib are currently being tested in different clinical trials and may offer new options for quickly addressing vitiligo progression.

Phototherapy

While not necessarily quick, combining phototherapy (like narrowband UVB) with topical treatments can be effective in halting vitiligo progression and inducing repigmentation.

It's important to note that the effectiveness of these treatments can vary depending on individual factors such as the extent of vitiligo, time of diagnosis, and overall health. Early intervention is key for the best chances of quickly stopping vitiligo progression. Consult with a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific case.

Suggested reading

Disclaimer of Endorsement and Liability

Please be advised that all information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician or health practitioner. Users are warned against changing any aspects of their treatment, diet or lifestyle based on this information without first consulting a registered medical practitioner. While every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy, VRF makes no warranty as to the reliability, accuracy, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of the content which reflect personal opinion of the authors.

 

FAQOther Questions

  • Can chemicals cause vitiligo?

    Certain chemicals can trigger vitiligo, leading to a condition known as chemical-induced vitiligo. While clinically and histologically indistinguishable from other types of viti...

  • I have vitiligo: will my children have vitiligo, too?

    If you have vitiligo, you might wonder about the chances of your children developing the condition. While there is a genetic component, vitiligo is not a straightforward heredit...

  • Is there a link between vitiligo and depression?

    Depression and anxiety are often linked with vitiligo, significantly impacting a person’s quality of life. The connection stems from the shared origin of the skin and brain duri...