The XXVI Master Class on Vitiligo took place in Cali, Colombia, under the esteemed presidency of Professor Rafael Falabella, Chairman, Department of Dermatology at Universidad del Valle, - a trailblazer in the field who is retiring this year. Held as part of the global headquarters for World Vitiligo Day (WVD) 2024, the event embraced the theme “United by the Skin” (“Unidos Por La Piel”), bringing together leading experts, clinicians, and researchers. Dr. Claudia Arenas served as the honorary WVD 2024 president, with Dr. Adriana Cruz as General Secretary.

Event Highlights

• June 24 
  The opening day focused on clinical innovation, featuring a pivotal workshop led by Professor Rafael Falabella, the pioneer of mini-punch grafting for vitiligo treatment. A record-breaking 108 participants, including medical students and clinicians, gained hands-on experience in mini-surgical procedures during this session.
• June 25 
  The second day expanded to include a comprehensive overview of vitiligo management strategies, from cutting-edge AI-driven diagnostics to pharmacological treatments, traditional therapies, camouflage techniques, and psychological interventions.

Key presentations included:
- Dr. Yan Valle: A historical perspective on WVD and its milestones.
- Dr. Khaled Ezzedine (recorded): Insights into vitiligo pathophysiology and emerging JAK inhibitors.
- Dr. Torello Lotti: Alternative therapeutic approaches and their clinical applications.
- Dr. Keith Loo: Advanced applications of AI in vitiligo diagnostics and treatment.

Additionally, high-caliber presentations were delivered by Drs. Johan Flórez Hurtado, Hernán Duque, David Arias, Natalia Vargas, and María Isabel Barona. E-poster presentations featured research by Prof. Konstantin Lomonosov, Dr. Julia Sigova, and Dr. Maria Borodina.

Legacy of Professor Rafael Falabella

Falabella’s contributions to vitiligo treatment were a cornerstone of the event. In 1978, he introduced a novel method of mini-punch grafting, transforming the approach to repigmenting leucoderma. Using precise techniques involving dental burrs and curved needles, he achieved exceptional results, including a 25-fold expansion of the donor graft’s pigmented area. His subsequent work, including the combination of epidermal and mini-grafting in 1995, further solidified his legacy.

Today, mini-punch grafting, particularly in combination with NB-UVB (311nm) phototherapy, is recognized as a highly effective and accessible treatment for stable vitiligo. Falabella’s methods remain a benchmark in surgical repigmentation, inspiring ongoing research and clinical advancements.

The Master Class on Vitiligo 2024 not only celebrated the career of Professor Rafael Falabella but also reinforced the global commitment to improving vitiligo care. With advancements in AI, innovative therapies, and time-tested techniques like mini-punch grafting, the event highlighted the strides being made in understanding and treating this complex condition.

As the world of dermatology evolves, Falabella’s legacy continues to shine, much like the vibrant city of Cali, where this landmark event unfolded.

The latest IMCAS congress in Paris was a scientific tribune of 12,529 attendees. The core of this year's congress revolved around traditional and non-conventional definitions of health and age. This involved an exhaustive scientific program that covered essentials in clinical dermatology, regenerative medicine, microbiome, as well as new innovations like AI & robotics.

A half-day vitiligo session at the congress was succinct and laconic, yet all-encompassing. Prof. Nanja van Geel from Belgium discussed the proper diagnosis of vitiligo. Prof. Torello Lotti first discussed cosmetic treatments for vitiligo and, in the next presentation, skin and gut microbiome status in vitiligo patients. Latest research reveals dysbiosis in the diversity of microbial community structure in vitiligo subjects. Individual specific signature is clearly dominant over the vitiligo-specific microbiota in both cases, yet it warrants further investigation of community-specific correlations. Prof. Khaled Ezzedine shared his perspective on the latest in vitiligo therapies, while Prof. Laila Benzekri highlighted new insights melanocyte transplantation techniques for vitiligo. The future of vitiligo treatments — from genes to new molecules — was presented by Dr. Albert Wolkerstorfer. 

Vitiligo session at IMCAS Congress follows the success of the previous educational events, and will continue to review and focus on the recent advancements in the diagnosis, treatment and management of vitiligo.

Room 141 on Saturday 1 February 2020, from 08:00 to 12:00

Speakers:

• Pr Yan VALLE: Presentation of World Vitiligo Day
• Pr Nanja VAN GEEL: Diagnosis and differential diagnosis of vitiligo
• Pr Khaled EZZEDINE: How to treat vitiligo
• Pr Torello M LOTTI: Cosmetic treatments in subjects with non-segmental vitiligo
• Pr Laila BENZEKRI: New insights in melanocyte transplantation techniques for vitiligo
• Dr Albert WOLKERSTORFER: From genes to new treatments
• Q&A Session

At the vitiligo session held during a recent Iaşi Dermatological Spring congress, Prof. Torello Lotti reminded participants about a complex and systemic nature of vitiligo, or rather, - vitiligos. First, dermatologists have to diagnose a specific subtype of vitiligo based on its intrinsic properties, some yet have to be clarified. Next, check for underlying and overlapping conditions. Then, move away from the one-size-fits-all approach that characterised vitiligo therapies up until recently and make it more personalised, safe and effective treatment. 

New treatments for autoimmune conditions, like vitiligo, rely on inactivating the 'crazy' immune cells that mistakenly identify and attack the body's own healthy cells. The outcomes of such treatments are far from being perfect, but benefits usually outweigh side-effects. Read more

A panel of renowned speakers will cover a whole range of topics in vitiligo: from the biology of melanocytes by Prof. Torello Lotti to surgical therapies by Prof. Davinder Parsad to novel herbal treatments by Prof. Michael Tirant, and everything in between.

The first lecture "Lectio Magistralis: Vitiligo" was given by Prof. Torello Lotti, MD at 11.00 on Friday, November 23, 2018. He discussed the latest developments in the field, including a recent exciting discovery in immunology. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), a molecule recognized as essential for many functions in neurobiology, was found to have a previously unknown role. It helps to control the growth of "killer" T cells in the immune system therefore leading way to completely novel therapies.

Other headline news: a tight connection between the gut (essentially, nutrition), moderate physical activity and inflammation in the body and skin was discussed by several speakers. A new herb-based product for vitiligo is hopefully coming to market in a matter of months. Previously unseen correlations between treatment outcomes and 40 contributing factors from our own study indicate that it takes about one year of a strict compliance to the UVB treatment protocol and costs about $5K to see positive, long-lasting results.

Program:

• Pshyconeuro endochrine cutaneous system: a psychological concept – Prof. T. Lotti, MD
• Diet and skin: new concepts – Dr.V.Di Narbo, MD
• Clinical observation on the treatment of 90 cases of vitiligo with Qubai double copper ion antibacterial gel – Dr. Zhang Ya Qin, MD
• Dermatologic cosmetology: the impact of gut microbiome and posturology – Prof. P.D'Alessio, MD
• Patient-reported outcomes in vitiligo: therapeutic, demographic, socio-economic and other previously unseen correlations – Prof. Y. Valle
• Pediatric vitiligo: early signs and treatment – Dr. J.Sigova, MD
• How can nature help in treating vitiligo? – Dr. C. Deihl, MD

XIII International Congress of Cosmetic Dermatology and INDRECOS Winter Forum was held under the dual presidency of Professors Pierfrancesco Morganti and Hong Duo Chen. The honorary presidium includes Prof. Torello Lotti, Maria Albini, Michelle Carruba, Katlein Franca, Sergat Inhaloz and Umit Tursen. 

After hours, participants were invited to pictresque Veroli for a meeting and sightseeing tour by Simone Cretaro, mayor, and Prof. Pierfrancesco Morganti.

Home to about 20,000 inhabants, this quiet town is located approximetly 90 km to the south of Rome, and sits on a hill with a splendid view, on the site of the ancient Hernican town of Verulae. It lies off the beaten tourist path and is hardly mentioned in the travel guides, yet it contains some of the most precious relics in Italy. 

Venture off away from the central street and gently ask about "Fasti Veruliani", a Roman calendar from 1 a.C., that the locals keep a closely guarded secret. Tucked in between two private buildings, this may not easily be found and may not even be much to look at -- unless you realize it's tremendous historic value. This original stone calendar from the Roman Empire shows us how important was an ancient Verulae. First, a brave and proud enemy of Rome and a faithful ally, later, it still keeps many of it's secret beneath the town streets. Here are few insider tips, to help you find some of Veroli's hidden spots.

In front of the city Municipo and Town Hall you'll see St. Andrea's cathedral with a basilica of Saint Maria Salome. Into the crypt, under the altar, there is a burial niche with remains of the patron of the town, the Holy Mother of the apostels Jacob the Major and John the Evangelist, and sister of Virgin Mary. As if this wouldn't be enough for piligrims to crowd the site, this cathedral also has 12 Saint Steps (see photo below), - the highiest distinction reserved only for Rome and Jerusalem. 

The archeological civic museum in the basemenet of the Town Hall is worth visiting for etrunian objects, bronze statues and well-preserved part of the defence wall that date back IV century B.C.

The adjacent Abbey of Casamari was started in the year 1005 by fourteen clergymen of Veroli. It has one the earliest gothic cathedrals in its purest, simplistic form, and is certainly worth your time on the way back to Rome. 

XXIV Master Class on Vitiligo and Pigmentary Disorders was held alongside 3rd Indo China Dermatology Conference and the Annual Scientific Meeting Of Dermatology and Venereology of the VSDV, in collaboration with the World Health Academy Dermatology (WHAD). 

Organizing Board members: 

• Prof. Tran Hau Khang, President of VSDV 
• Assoc Prof. Nguyen Van Thuong, Director of National Hospital of Dermatology and Venereology. 

When: December 1-2, 2017
Where: Melia Hotel, 44 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hoan Kiem, Ha Noi, Vietnam

Website: icd2017.vn

Report

An Enlightening Tripartite Event in Hanoi, December 2017:
3rd Indochina Academy of Dermatology Conference
World Health Academy Dermatology Summit
Vietnamese Society of Dermatology Annual Meeting

by Robert A. Schwartz MD, MPH, DSc (Hon), FAADV (Hon), FRCP Edin
Dermatology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey

This tripartite program brought together world dermatology luminaries from twenty-one countries. Attendees enjoyed dynamic Hanoi with its Parisan ambience and Asian vitality, welcomed by Syarief Hidayat (Indonesia), Asian Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (AADV) President, Chan Vicheth, President of Cambodian Society of Dermatology, and Vietnamese Society of Dermatology (VSDV) President and AADV Deputy President Prof. Tran Hau Khang. VSDV President Tran Hau Khang opened the conference. President and Asian Academy of Dermatology and Venereology AADV Deputy President Prof. Tran Hau Khang MD, PhD, ably assisted Associate Prof. Nguyen Van Thuong. AADV President Syarief Hidayat (Indonesia), Deputy President Tran Hau Khang, and AADV General Secretary Steven Kim Weng Chow (Malaysia) made selected guests honorary fellows. WHA Dermatology President Torello M. Lotti (Italy) promulgated the value of this international cooperation.

Plenary session lectures were given by Torello M. Lotti, Daisuke Tsuruta, Robert A. Schwartz, Stephan Lautenschlager, and Steven Kim Weng Chow. Torello M. Lotti proclaimed the value of low-dose cytokine therapy in dermatology. Daisuke Tsuruta (Japan) covered management of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Robert A. Schwartz (USA) focused on Kaposi’s sarcoma. Stephan Lautenschlager (Switzerland) adroitly detailed etiologies of genital ulcers. Steven Kim Weng Chow emphasized the need to avoid acne scarring.

Additional presentations were superb. Indonesian Society of Dermatology President M. Yulianto “Wawan” Listiawan documented the value of utilizing the vascular laser. Cambodian Dermatology Society President Chan Vicheth delineated challenges in acne therapy. Xing-hua Gao and Hexiao Wang (China) documented that HSBP1 deficiency sensitizes melanoma cells to hyperthermia-induced cell death. Giuseppe Micali (Italy) stressed the hidradenitis suppurativa clinical spectrum. Agharid El-Gammal (Egypt) advocated treating psoriasis with a special combination of aloe vera and proplis. 

Christian Diehl (Argentina) covered plant-derived therapies for vitiligo. Davinder Parsad (India) evinced recent advances in vitiligo treatment. Yan Valle (Canada) brought United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3) to the forefront with its declaration on the human rights of the disabled, prioritizing chronic dermatologic diseases. Michael Tirant (Austalia) targeted the role superantigens in treating psoriasis. 

 Boudda Bounmyviset (Laos) noted acetaminophen as a cause of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis. Francois Niyonsaba (Japan) discussed the role of the skin-derived antimicrobial peptides. Magnus Unemo (Sweden) expressed global concerns with antimicrobial resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Giang Nguyen Huong (Vietnam/USA) articulated an update on cutaneous lymphoma and its rare variants. Jason CH Yang (Formosa) highlighted management of stasis dermatitis. Manu Jain (United Nations) demonstrated the value of reflectance confocal microsopy in inflammatory cutaneous lesions. Rungsima Wanitphakdeedecha (Thailand) delved into Asian concepts of beauty.

Many superb poster presentations were also provided, as was a specticular gala dinner. Aurora Tedeschi (Italy) and other guests were grateful to the host dermatologists, including talented Vietnamese-American Giang Nguyen Huong, a guiding light for many colleagues, as she graciously showed them the sights, sounds, shopping, and culinary delights of vibrant Hanoi such as the balut (fertilized duck egg) memorably consumed by Stephan Lautenschlager, Yan Valle and Robert A. Schwartz. Some explored Ha Long Bay, in the Gulf of Tonkin, with its thousands of magnificent limestone karsts and isles.

WHA Dermatology President Torello M. Lotti welcomes attendees

Over 300 participants 

Presentation of clinical cases on vitiligo

Prof. Parsad presents recent advances in vitiligo treatment.

Prof. Christian Diehl presents natural remedies for vitiligo.

President Lotti recognizes the achievements of Yan Valle (Torello M. Lotti, Yan Valle, and Hao Nguyen Trong, right to left)

Joyful evening gala.

was held in collaboration with INDERCOS and Cuban Vitiligo Support and Research Group, under the leadership of Prof. Jorge Luis Pérez Hidalgo (Cuba). International and national expert speakers discussed the latest basic research, advances, evidence and guidelines on diagnosis, investigation and management of vitiligo and other pigment cell disorders. Participants reviewed risk factors in vitiligo, treatment approach to patients of pediatric and adult age, a variety of therapeutic options for vitiligo, including 'traditional medicines.' We also discussed a common action at the United Nations aimed at improving quality of life of people with dermatological disabilities, and the World Vitiligo Day campaign.

Program

Location: 'Hotel Nacional de Cuba', Habana, Cuba

16 November, 2017 - Thursday

9.30 – 17.30 Visits to the Health Ministry Office, Medical University and clinics

17 November, 2017 - Friday

08:30 – 09:00 Opening Ceremony
09:00 – 09:15 Presentation of Cuban Vitiligo Support and Research Group – MsC. Luis Perez Hidalgo
09:15 – 09:30 The Placental Histotherapy: A Cuban Experience In The Treatment Of Vitiligo, Psoriasis and Alopecia – Dr. Ernesto Miyares Díaz
9:30 – 9:45 Cosmetic Amniotherapy: A method To Delay The Aging And Improve The Quality Of Life – Dr. Ernesto Miyares Díaz
9:45 – 10:00 Meditation: An Alternative Treatment For Vitiligo And Other Skin Disorders – MsC. Rafael Bestar Biset
10:00 – 10:15 The Interrelatıon Hıstotherapy-Dermatology In The Hıstotherapy-Placentary Center – Dr. Isabel Caraballo Pons
10:15 – 10:30 The Spirit Of Diseases As Antecedents Of Biological Diseases – Prof. Victor Lazaro Betancourt
10:30 – 11:00 Coffee Break
11:00 – 12:30 APMNA (Association for Psychoneurocutaneous Medicine of North America) Conference
12:30 – 14:00 Lunch
14:00 – 14:15 A Descriptive Study Of Stress And Mental Disease Among Patients With Dermatological Skin Complaints, Treated In Hıstotherapy-Placentary Center – Dr. Isabel Caraballo Pons
14:15 – 14.30 Quality Of Life Among Patients With Vitiligo, Psoriasis And Alopecia Areata, Measured By Miller & Smith Test Of Vulnerability – Dr. Isabel Caraballo Pons
14:30 – 15:30 Oral Presentations
15:30 – 16:00 Coffee Break
16:00 – 17:30 Q&A Session
19:30 – 22:00 Congress Dinner

18 November 2017, Saturday

09:00 – 09:15 United Nations ECOSOC on Disabilities and Human Rights – Prof. Yan Valle
09:15 – 09:45 Vitiligo: What’s True, What’s Not in 2017 – Prof. Torello Lotti
09:45 – 10:00 Vitiligo Treatment Guidelines – Prof. Yan Valle
10:00 – 10:15 Vitiligo Photobiology - Prof. Andy Goren
10:15 – 10:30 Minoxidil Dose Response in Females Not Responding to Topical 5% Minoxidil - Prof. Andy Goren
10:30 – 11:00 Coffee Break
11:00 – 12:30 INDERCOS - Acne Symposium
12:30 – 14:00 Lunch
14:00 – 15:30 Oral Presentation Session
15:30 – 16:00 Coffee Break
16:00 – 17:30 Q&A Session
19:30 – 22:00 Congress Dinner

Photos

Prof. Jorge Luis Perez

Managing committee

Master Class participants

A Forum of the National Health Competencies was held at the headquarters of the League Of Arab Nations in Cairo (Egypt) on February 16, 2017. 

The high-profile meeting with representatives from across the healthcare sector, World Health Organization, UN ECOSOC and Vatican was organized by Prof. Dr. Agharid El Gamal. 

Discussion at the roundtable.

Prof. Torello Lotti and Prof. Agharid El-Gamal during the session.

Journalists, TV and radio gathered to cover the event. 

Prof. Yan Valle talks about role of UN ECOSOC in protecting rights of people with disabilities. 

This master-class was organized within 15th Pan Arab Congress of Dermatology and Venereology, jointly with the 4th International Palestinian Congress Of Dermatology in Ramallah on November 9-10, 2016.

Congress Chairman Dr. Riad Mashal warmly welcomed all the participants of the joint event in the Holy Land, held under the patronage of H.E. Mahmoud Abbas, President of Palestine. He spoke on the new drugs and new concepts in the treatment of some common skin disorders.

Prof. Torello Lotti has delivered the keynote lecture on what's true and what's not in vitiligo, throughly reviewed the latest scientific and clinical advancements in pigmentary disorders, pathogenesis and comorbidities of vitiligo.

Prof. Yan Valle reinforced the message on the systemic nature of the disease, reviewed treatment protocols, summarized available treatment options, their efficacy and side-effects, with the patient perspective in mind.

Dr. Noufal Raboobe compared excimer laser and light devices efficacy following needling procedures in vitiligo, and complex cases involving psoriasis, eczema and alopecia aerata.

Prof. Andrew Finlay discussed a common discharge process from a dermatology clinic that has a major impact on treatment efficacy and overall patient's health, suggested a series of key practical tips and reviewed essential aspects of post-discharge treatment plan.

Prof. Evangeline Handog has touched upon a sensitive subject of skin whitening, media hype and misleading advertising. She reviewed key aspects of safety, efficacy and side effects of lightening agents. 

Prof. Torello Lotti presents a recognition plaque to the Congress President Dr. Riad Mashal.

Over 250 participants of the master class.

Prof. Torello Lotti talks about new systemic treatments in vitiligo.

Prof. Yan Valle is getting ready to speak about VR Foundation and vitiligo treatments.

Dr. Noufal Raboobe speaking about treatment of complicated cases.

A warm and relaxing atmosphere was created at the welcome dinner by congress organizers. 

Sunrise over the Holy Land. 

This event marked an important date in the history of dermatology in Kazakhstan. 90 years ago, a new dermatovenereological clinic opened it's doors to inhabitants of Shymkent and local tribes in the south of the country. As years passed by, it grew into a modern hospital with 305 beds and a team of recognized specialists. It has also become a leading center of research and care for vitiligo in Central Asia. 

Our Master Class was held alongside the Regional Conference Of Dermatovenereologists and Cosmetologists of Republic of Kazakhstan on September 23, 2016, under the co-presidency of Professors Gulnar R. Batpenova, Margulan M. Shakirov, Seitzhamal O. Pakeev and Gulmira B. Nurmagambetova. Over 150 specialists from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan attended presentations and specialized workshops. 

The Master Class program was geared towards building practical skills in modern vitiligo treatment techniques. Lectures of the basics of vitiligo treatments and and results of most recent clinical trials were given by Yan Valle and Igor Korobko. Dr. Aliya A. Kassumkhanova led the hands-on demonstrations and live surgical procedures. 

A first monograph on vitiligo treatments in Kazakh, Russian and English was presented at the conference. 

Collaboration between VR Foundation and Regional Dermatovenereological Hospital on vitiligo research and care was praised by the Kazakh state officials as a life-changing endeavor, thanks to tireless efforts of Dr. Aliya A.Kassumkanova, under the supervision of the hospital general manager Prof. Gulmira B. Nurmagambetova. 

When: September 22-23, 2016
Where: Rixos Hotel, Shymkent, Kazakhstan

Over 150 leading dermatologists from four countries attended the conference, workshops and master-class.

Prof. Seitzhamal O. Pakeev welcomes participants of the conference.

Prof. Igor Korobko presents an overview of vitiligo treatment techniques.

Co-chairs of the conference: Profs. Gulmira B. Nurmagambetova, Hana Zelenkova and Yan Valle.

From left to right: Prof. Igor Korobko, Dr. Olga Smirnova, Dr. Aliya Kassumkhanova and Prof. Yan Valle holding recognition diplomas and honorary signs for their assistance in building up dermatological service in South Kazakhstan.

An outstanding musical performance was given by the 'Seventh Continent' dance group during the reception dinner. 

Gifts were brought by sponsors to award outstanding specialists.

Workshops and master class were held at the Regional Dermatovenereological Hospital the next day.

Dr. Aliya Kassumkhanova is setting up the workshop equipment.

Prof. Korobko explains details of melanocyte transplantation procedure.

A micro-surgical procedure performed by doctors Vladislav V. Hvan and A.A. Sarnsenbaeva, assisted by nurse Guliya Slanova.

Melanocyte transfer procedure in progress.

A workshop on using camouflage from Zanderm (USA). 

Patient's hands in the process of applying camouflage. 

Program

Monograph

Methods Of Vitiligo Treatment. A.A.Kassymkhanova, G.K. Askarova, Y.Valle, I.V. Korobko, K.M. Lomonosov, G.B. Nurmagabetova, A.Stanimirovic. ISBN 978-601-80599-3-3. 352 pages.

This annual master class was held in Hyderabad (India) together with 3rd PIGMENT Meeting under the joint leadership of Dr. Davinder Parsad, Dr. Sushil Tehaliani, Dr. A. Parthasarthy and Dr. SD Mehta.

The theme of 2-day program was 'Deep Dive Into Vitiligo Research: Current Trends And Innovations'.

Master class has included a veritable scientific feast of expert speakers, practice-oriented and clinically relevant topics, and multiple opportunities to participate during deliberations. International & Indian experts in vitiligo share their unique experiences with 408 participants.

Pre-announcement

PHOTOS

Prof. Davinder Parsad welcomes four hundred participants from all over India, Nepal and Pakistan.

This year, master class on vitiligo attracted more researchers, doctors and healthcare professionals than the previous one in Amritsar.

We'll add more photos in the next few days.

This Master Class was held together with the 2nd Winter Consensus Conference On Dermatology. We have reviewed the progress during past four years since the  first conference that was held in Kitzbuhel in 2012, the latest progress in vitiligo, and also dermatological disabilities, national reports on the quality of life in different countries. We discussed a common action at the United Nations for the benefit of all dermatological societies and set up new development goals and projects.

THEME: Working Towards Common Actions at the United Nations

OFFICIAL PROGRAM 

REPORT AND PHOTOS

Invitation Letter

Dear colleague,

I am writing to invite you to The Eternal City - Rome - to attend, and present at, the second Winter Consensus Conference of Dermatology.

This is being organized by the World Health Academy Of Dermatology and, as an expert in the field, your insights and opinions will be of huge value to your colleagues from across the world.

We want to build on the success of the first conference, which was held in Kitzbühel in 2012 and attended by the leaders of all major dermatological societies and Nobel Laureates. You can read more about it here but, in short, we committed ourselves to improving patient outcomes in vitiligo and pigmentary disorders.

Since then there has been unprecedented progress in this once neglected area of dermatology:

Around fifty peer-reviewed papers are now published on this subject quarterly, increasing our understanding of the disease. The pharmaceutical pipeline went from totally dry to a healthy stream of candidates, whilst World Vitiligo Day – a grassroots campaign – is celebrated by millions each year. World Vitiligo Day 2016 was marked by (amongst many other events) a massive rally at the steps of Capitol in Washington DC.

Not all these achievements are directly connected to us, and a lot of work remains to be done by national organizations. However, our collective resolve has undoubtedly improved patient outcomes and quality of life for the many millions of vitiligo sufferers.

It’s an achievement to be proud of, but we now have a new goal - to increase the profile of vitiligo at the United Nations.

Our colleagues at the non-profit VR Foundation have recently secured a consultative membership with the UN committee of economic and social development (ECOSOC). This is a significant achievement as it puts our common concerns, needs and suggestions on the UN agenda.

We must make sure the UN hears and acts on our recommendations.

By attending and presenting at the forthcoming conference, you will contribute massively to our efforts in this regard. I do hope you can help us.

I guarantee you stimulating discussion and a chance to learn from other experts in the field. Refreshments will be available throughout the day.

Of course, there is also time for socializing – this is Italy! In the evening, I invite you to a cocktail reception where you can relax with colleagues and friends over a drink.

To recap – the Winter Consensus Conference of Dermatology will be held at the Aula Magna of the University of Rome G. Marconi, just a few of blocks away from the Vatican, between 10am and 5pm on December 4, 2016. Registration and other details will soon be posted in this page, and you can also confirm your participation simply by sending us an email.

Please also email the subject of your 7-minute presentation before September 15, 2017. This should concern a healthcare, research or patient support topic that requires international collaboration and support from the UN.

RSVP as soon as you can, your attendance will help and enrich us all.

Kind regards,

Torello

Prof. Dr. Torello Lotti MD, MD (Hon)

Professor & Chair of Dermatology
University of Rome “ G.Marconi”
Rome, Italy

President, World Health Academy Dermatology, Zurich (CH)

A long-awaited return to Russia with a high-level scientific and clinical program on vitiligo after five years that passed since the previous symposium held in St. Petersburg. This event was held in conjunction with the XVI All-Russian Congress of Dermatovenereologists and Cosmetologists under the Chairmanship of Prof. Alexei Kubanov. Lectures for 144 participants were held in both English and Russian.

Where: Moscow, Crocus City Hall
When: June 16, 2016, 9 am - 12 noon

Vitiligo: Pathogenesis and Therapy (Витилиго. Вопросы патогенеза и терапии).

Co-chairs: Torello Lotti, Dmitry Aksenov, Yan Valle

Program

• Витилиго: что нового в 2016 году? (Vitiligo: What’s New in 2016) Prof. Torello Lotti, MD
• Методы и препараты для лечения витилиго: обзор результатов клинических исследований, проф., д.м.н. И.В. Коробко 
• Современные методы лечения витилиго, проф. д.м.н. К.М. Ломоносов 
• Школа Витилиго в республике Казахстан: 10-летний опыт работы А.А. Касымханова 15 мин.
• Использование биобанка и телемедицины при разработке лекарств для витилиго. Prof. Yan Valle

Photos

Congress President Prof. Alexei Kubanov, MD. 

Prof. Igor Korobko, DSci opened the session with review of the current research progress in vitiligo.

VR Foundation Chief Scientific Director Prof. Igor Korobko, DSci

Prof. Torello Lotti, MD Chair Dermatology Department at University of G.Maroni in Rome, Italy.

Prof. Torello Lotti, MD received help with translation from a Russian colleague, Dr. Utz Rudolf. Sergey.

The meeting hall was packed full with 144 attendees.

Dr. Aliya Kassumkhanova, MD travelled from Kazakhstan to share her 10-year experience in vitiligo treatments.

Prof. Yan Valle, MSc. closed the session with insights on vitiligo drug development. 

Participants had a rare opportunity for Vitiligo Q&A in their native language with Yan Valle. 

Participants enjoy a traditional Russian hospitality and delicious lunch options.

Russian folk music played by award-winning artists.

A popular folk band performed at the reception dinner offered by the congress organizers. 

Our XVI Master Class on Vitiligo and Pigmentary Disorders was held in conjunction with the 12th International Congress of International Society of Cosmetic Dermatology. This year congress' theme is 'New Horizon in Cosmetic Dermatology.' Different methods and devices designed to treat vitiligo and other hypo pigmentation disease were discussed during this intense master class course. 

Location

When: April 2, 2016
Where: Ritz Carlton Hotel Pacific Place in Jakarta, Indonesia

Program

11:00 - 11:20 What’s New, What’s True in 2016: The Therapeutic Pipeline for Vitiligo – Prof. Torello Lotti, MD (Italy)

11:20 - 11:40 Hypopigmentation Besides Vitiligo – Prof. Tjut Nurul Alam (Indonesia)
11:40 - 12:00 Phototherapy in Vitiligo – Prof. Henry Lim, MD (USA)
12:00 - 12:20 Non Steroid Immunomodulators in Management of Vitiligo Progression – Prof. Torello Lotti, MD (Italy) 

12:20 - 13:20 Lunch Break

13:20 - 13:40 Fractional Laser-aided Penetration of Slow-releasing Corticosteroid Plus NB-UVB to Treat Recalcitrant Stable – Prof. Xing-Hua Gao, MD (China)
13:40 - 14:00 Biobanking Specimens for Vitiligo – Prof. Yan Valle (USA)
14:00 - 14:20 Punch, Blister and Cellular Grafting for Vitiligo – Prof. Amit G. Pandya, MD (USA)
14:20 - 14:40 Major mistakes in approaching the Vitiligo Patients - Prof. Torello Lotti, MD (Italy)

14:40 - 15:00 Q&A Session

Prof. Lotti opened the Master Class with a brief review of VRF's educational events around the world, the World Vitiligo Day campaign and other collaborative programs.

An thorough update on the latest news and developments in vitiligo area in 2016 eloquently delivered by Prof. Lotti

VRF CEO Yan Valle provided practical tips on collecting biosamples for future research on vitiligo.

Prof. Amit Pandya spoke in detail about surgical therapies for vitiligo, illustrated with few failed and a lot more of successful patient treatment examples.

Prof. Xing-Hua Gao and others attended the Cultural Diversity Night dinner to immerse into rich Indonesian culture and true hospitality.

Over 100 participants of XVII Master Class on Vitiligo in Manaus explored genetic risk factors in vitiligo, treatment approach to patients of pediatric and adult age, a variety of therapeutic options for vitiligo, including 'traditional medicines' of Amazon tribes. Presentations on melasma, actinic dermatoses and challenging clinical cases enhanced the intensive program. Participants have also received the reference data on the active ingredients, side effects, potential interactions between herbal supplements and conventional medications.

With a population of more than 2 million, Manaus is the capital and largest city of the state of Amazonas in the North Region of Brazil, founded in 1693. Manaus is located in the middle of the Amazon rainforest, at the confluence of the Negro and Solimões rivers. Access to the city is primarily by boat or airplane.

This isolation helped preserve both the nature as well as the culture of the city. The city is the main entrance to visit the fauna and flora of the Brazilian Amazon. Few places in the world afford such a variety of plants, birds, insects, and fishes.

Photos

Fundafcao Alfredo Da Matta opened it's doors for master class participants.

Bem Vindos to Master Class on Vitiligo ad Pigmentary Disorders in Manaus, Brazil!

Prof. Marcelo Mira opened the program with presentation on genetic risk factors in vitiligo.

Over 100 participants registered for the intensive program.

Prof. Paulo Cunha has discussed new vitiligo treatments with piperine, followed by presentation on treatment of melasma with laser.

Prof. Carolina Talhari talks about hypochromic actinic dermatoses.

Presentation sparked an active discussion led by Prof. Carlos Machado.

Prof. Torello Lotti discussed treatment of vitiligo in pediatric age.

Prof. Mauricio Martins (left) and Joel Carlos Lastoria (right)

Where: Manaus, Brazil
When: Friday, June 10th from 9:00-18:00
Organizers: Paulo Cunha (SP) and Sinésio Talhari (AM)

Official Program

08:50-09:00 - Symposiaum Opening – Carla Ribas (Pres. SBD – Regional AM) and Francisco Helder Cavalcante (Director FUAM)
09:00-09:25 – Genetic risk factors for susceptibility to vitiligo. Marcelo Mira (PR)
09:25-09:50 – Bio-informatics and Bio-banking for research in vitiligo. Yan Valle (USA)
09:50-10:15 - Clinical and Therapeutic Approach of Vitiligo, Carlos Machado (SP)

10:15-10:40 - Coffee - Break

10:40-11:05 - Vitiligo: American Academy of Dermatology Comments. Dr. Mauricio Martins (PR)
11:05-11:30 - Vitiligo Home Treatment - How, When, Why. Torello Lotti (Italy)
11:30-11:55 – Vitiligo: New treatment with Black Pepper extract. Paulo Cunha (SP)
11:55-12:10 – Investigaçao laboratorial em pacientes com vitiligo. Joel Carlos Lastoria (SP)
12:10-12:30 - Discussion

12:30-14:00 – Lunch break

14:00-14:25 - Ethno-Botanical Treatments for Vitiligo. Yan Valle (USA)
14:25-14:50 – Melasma: Treatment with Laser and/or LIP. Paulo Cunha (SP) 
14:50-15:15 – Sirtuins Family and Vitiligo - What's the Next Step? Torello Lotti (Italy)

15:15-15:35 – Coffee break

15:35-16:00 – Hypochromic Actinic Dermatoses. Carolina Talhari/ Antonio Pedro M. Schettini (AM)
16:00-16:25 - Refractory Vitiligo: Treatment with Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser (CO2) Combined with Betamethasone and Salycilic Acid Solution. Paulo Cunha (SP)
16:25-16:50 - Treatment of Vitiligo in Pediatric Age. Torello Lotti (Italy)
16:50-17:30 - Clinical Cases of Vitiligo: 4 cases (10 minutes each. SinésioTalhari (AM), Mauricio Martins (PR), Joel Carlos Lastoria (SP), Oswaldo Delfini Filho (SP)). Coordinator Oswaldo Delfini Filho (SP).

17:30-18:00 – Discussion and Session Closure.

Download (pdf)

Notes on ethnobotanical treatments

During the last decades, new methods of therapeutic research, ethno-botany and ethno-pharmacology and even archeo-pharmacology, have been used extensively to explore 'traditional medicines.' Indigenous cultures possess notions, to a remarkable extent, of indications or applicability of different plants for different diseases, as well as toxicity, contraindications, and interaction among many plants.

However, ‘traditional healers’ and patients do not consider herbals to be pharmacologic, which also have proven potential to significantly interact with prescribed conventional medications. Only few of dozens of “traditional medicines” or “natural remedies” have been observed to be effective in skin diseases, while many are proven to have toxic properties.

Partial relief was achieved in psoriasis, dermatophytoses, ichthyosis, leprosy, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Some forms of alopecia, onychomycosis, vitiligo, allergic dermatoses, are largely not improved by herbal medicines. It was shown in clinical studies that most effective for vitiligo and pigmentary disorders are extracts of Polypodium leucotomos, Ginkgo biloba and Pyrostegia venusta. 

While not inclusive, participants have received the reference data on the active ingredients, side effects, potential interactions between herbal supplements and conventional medications.

Conference MASTERS OF VITILIGO AND PIGMENTATION was held in collaboration with Mount Sinai Hospital. Special Thanks to Prof. Nanette Silverberg, Prof. Mark Lebwohl and Prof. Andrew Alexis for organizing this intense training course with CME credits. 

When & Where

When: Thursday, December 3, 2015 at 12:30-5 PM
Where: Mt Sinai Roosevelt Hospital Conference Rooms A-C; 1000 Tenth Ave., New York

Photos 

See more photos

Scientific Program

Welcome! 

 Dear Colleague,

Vitiligo and pigmentation disorders are among the most common skin disorders. In vitiligo, control of pigment and identification of comorbidities is important in this cutaneous disorder that can have a severe and negative impact on quality of life. Current therapies are still similar to those used over a decade ago, but are in the process of expansion. Hyperpigmentation is a vexing discoloration typified by excess pigment appearing in the skin. Therapies include sun protection, bleaching agents, cosmeceuticals, chemical peels and lasers.

• Develop a paradigm by which to address the need for care for vitiligo patients based on clinical and systemic features
• To utilize combination treatment approaches to improve outcomes in disorders of hyperpigmentation

Please plan to join us for this informative and practical session.

Cordially,
Course Co-Directors

Course Syllabus 

12:30-1 PM Clinical and Therapeutic Overview of Vitiligo by   Nanette Silverberg, MD

1-1:15 PM Excimer Laser and Light Sources for Vitiligo by Suhail Hadi, MD

1:15-1:30PM Fractional laser aided penetration of slow-releasing corticosteroid plus NB-UVB to treat recalcitrant stable vitiligo by Xing-Hua Gao, MD

1:30-2 PM A Psychological Approach to the Vitiligo Patient by Carmen Grau, PhD

2-2:30PM Melasma and Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation by Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH

Coffee Break

2:45-3:00 PM Special Populations: Pediatric Vitiligo and Patients of Color Nanette by Silverberg, MD

3:00-3:15 PM Afamelanotide for Vitiligo by Mark Lebwohl, MD

3:30-4:00 PM What’s New, What’s True in 2015: The Therapeutic Pipeline for Vitiligo by Torello Lotti, MD

4:00-4:15 Biobanking Specimens for Vitiligo by Yan Valle, MSc.

4:30-5PM Vitiligo Case Based Forum.  Moderator: Gary Brauner

Panel: Mark Lebwohl, Andrew Alexis, Nanette Silverberg, Torello Lotti.

Faculty and Co-Directors

• Nanette B. Silverberg, MD

• Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH

• Torello Lotti, MD, MD (Hon)

• Mark Lebwohl, MD, 

Additional Faculty

• Carmen Grau, PhD

• Yan Valle, MSc, MBA

• Prof. Xing-Hua Gao, MD

• Gary Brauner, MD

Our 10th Master Class on Vitiligo and Pigmentary Disorders was held in Harbin, China, on August 1-3, 2015. European and Chinese guidelines were reviewed in fine detail. Unlike the straightforward European treatment approach, the Chinese consensus pay special attention to all factors that may influence the disease activity, treatment outcome and overall health and wellbeing of the patient. Over 300 participants mostly from Eastern and Northern provinces of China attended the Master Class.

Having the most bitterly cold winters among major Chinese cities, Harbin is heralded as the Ice City for its beautiful ice sculpture festival in the winter, the largest in the world. Besides being well known for its historical Russian legacy, it serves as an important gateway in Sino-Russian trade today.

The Master Class was held under the presidency of Professor Xing Hua Gao, MD, Chairman and Professor of Department of Dermatology, No.1 Hospital of China Medical University, and also the President of the World Vitiligo Day campaign 2015.

Download full program in English and Chinese (xls file).

Taking a group photo before the opening ceremony begins.

A conference hall in the historic Harbin hotel.

• Xinghua Gao: Prof. and Chair of Dermatology, No. 1 Hospital of China Medical University
• Hongduo Chen: Academician, Prof. of Dermatology, No.1 Hospital of China Medical University
• Yan Valle: Chief Executive Officer of Vitiligo Research Foundation
• Jinrui Zhang: Deputy Secretary, Heilongjiang Provincial Madical Association
• Yongchen Wang: Director, Second Hospital of Harbin Medical University
• Zhehu Jin: Prof. and Chair of Dermatology, Yanbian Medical University

Prof. Torello Lotti delivers a lecture on what's new in vitiligo to date.

Prof. Davinder Parsad demystified vitiligo treatment strategy.

CEO VR Foundation Yan Valle goes through the basics of vitiligo drug development.

Prof. Hong Duo Chen observes the contest among participants.

Prof. Xing Hua Gao is a lucky winner of the third prize.

The 2015 Vitiligo Advanced Technology Summit was held on May 23, 2015 in Zheng Zhou (China), superbly organised by Mr.Ye, the President of the China Vitiligo Hospitals. Over 150 experts attended the Summit which was successfully organised in the mixed format of a main lecture and following group discussions in a specially designed educational area.

The Summit was preceded by and followed by a guided tour of the innovative China Vitiligo Hospital in Zheng Zhou. The Hospital was highly appreciated for its unique design and the special and innovative diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and the extraordinarily efficacious therapeutic approaches which are available.  The medical, surgical and nursery staff appeared to comply with the highest international standards.

Experts of renowned fame in the field were present at the different events of the Summit were the newest SIGMA Phototherapy Devices were presented. The novel treatments presented included the GUNA Low Dose Oral treatment of Vitiligo with Cytokines and Growth Factors (IL-10 , IL-4 and bFGF).

The Summit was introduced by the main lecture 'International Advanced News in Vitiligo Treatment' delivered by Prof. Torello Lotti, Chair of the Board of Vitiligo Research Foundation and Chairman of the Dermatology and Regenerative Medicine Centre at the Guglielmo Marconi University of Rome, Italy. After the main lecture, group discussions were facilitated by international and national experts.

The social programme was concluded with a fabulous traditional dinner in the beautiful city of Zheng Zhou.

Congratulations to Mr Ye and his team for organising such an amazing 2015 educational and social international event in China which resulted in an unrivalled success in the panorama of the Vitiligo educational offer of the year.

Reported by Prof. Torello Lotti

Prof. Torello Lotti, Chair of the Board of VR Foundation and Mr. Ye, the President of the China Vitiligo Hospitals.

Over 150 experts attended the Vitiligo Advanced Technology Summit.

Message from the President

I have the pleasure to inform you that in the forthcoming 2015 the team of the Summer Academy in association with Vitiligo Research Foundation. Read more

Prof. M. Kadurina, M.D., Ph.D, DSc
Head of the Department of dermatology and allergology
Military Medical Academy, Sofia

Program

Download: Page 1, 2, 3

Official website: http://www.summerdermatology.com/en/

Report and Photos

Translating vitiligo research into clinical utility was a key message of IX Master Class in Sofia. Read more 

XIV Master Class On Vitiligo will be held on May 18-21, 2015. The aim of this Master-Class is to hold practical demonstration sessions where attendees have an opportunity to learn and share best practice in complicated vitiligo microsurgery and transplantation cases, and general vitiligo management. Prof. Davinder Parsad (India) will demonstrate the most advanced melanocyte transplantation techniques. 

Download Master Class program: page 1, 2, 3, 4 (jpeg files)

Report and Photos

Over 160 dermatologists from 9 countries gathered in the beautiful Dan Hotel on the seashore of Tel Aviv for a intense course on vitiligo on November 25-26, 2015. 

Expert speakers discussed the latest basic research, advances, evidence and guidelines on diagnosis, investigation and management of vitiligo and other pigment cell disorders such as melanoma and melanoma. The program  covered a wide range of topics from the Dead Sea climatotherapy to telemedicine in dermatology. 

Scientific Program 

• in English: Read online or  Download
• in Russian:  Download

Photos

See more photos

Sponsorship Package download 

A one-day intense program, connected with 10th Congress of New Articles, Innovations in Dermatology. 

Message from the President

It is my pleasure to announce the First International Master class of Vitiligo in Tehran, Iran that will be held in May 2015. 

According to the successful experiences of the 2-3 days Master Classes of Vitiligo in other countries we decided to arrange a one-day Master class to cover a rapid up to date about Vitiligo. We combined this class with the tenth congress of New Articles and Innovation in Dermatology on May 13-15 2015, which is held annually by the Skin Research Center Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran. 

Experts and pioneers will share their newest achievements in this field. We hope to organize future Master Classes in conjunction with live workshops and hands on sessions in Iran regularly.

Program

May 14, 2015

 8.20 - 12.30

VI. edukativni skup o vitiligu i poremećajima pigmentacije 

Theme

“Innovative Therapy in Dermatology” Symposium and Dermoscopy course
Simpozij „Inovativne dermatološke terapije“ i Tečaj dermatoskopije

Where and When

Radisson Blu Hotel in Split, Croatia on 30th April – 3rd May 2015.

Official website: www.spektar-putovanja.hr/INOVA_DERMA2015/engdefault.asp

Organizers

• Croatian Dermatovenerological Society of the Croatian Medical Association
• Croatian Vitiligo Association
• Vitiligo Research Foundation
• World Health Academy

Congress president: Professor Mirna Šitum, M.D., Ph.D.

Congress vice-president: Professor Andrija Stanimirović, M.D., Ph.D.

Scientific Board president: Professor Branka Marinović, M.D., Ph.D

Scientific Board members:

• Professor Mirna Šitum, M.D., Ph.D.
• Professor Andrija Stanimirović, M.D., Ph.D.
• Professor Branka Marinović, M.D., Ph.D.
• Professor Mihael Skerlev, M.D., Ph.D.
• Professor Neira Puizina-Ivić, M.D., Ph.D.
• Professor Torello Lotti, M.D., Ph.D.
• Professor Andreas Katsambas, M.D., Ph.D.
• Igor Korobko, M.D., Ph.D.
• Yan Valle, M.Sc., MSc., CEO of the Vitiligo Research Foundation

Program

Full program - Read or Download 

Report & Photos

Read report with photos from the Master-Class.

Theme

'Vitiligo: From Lab to Holistic Management: Bridging the Gap'

 Download program >>

Members of the Organizing Committee are lightning candles during the opening ceremony.

352 participants and speakers from 12 countries attended this 3-day event, skillfully managed by Prof. Davinder Parsad and his colleagues.

Professors Davinder Parsad and Torello Lotti (second, third from the left), among participants.

Dr. Igor Korobko, DSci, VRF Chief Scientific Director, presents thoughts on difficult to regiment cases.

Dr. Yan Valle, VR Foundation CEO, explains features of Vitiligo Cloud Bank system. 

Participants were actively engaged in subject matter discussion. 

Recognition awards given to participants by Prof. Torello Lotti.

Golden Temple of Amritsar, a home to Sikhism’s holiest shrine.

Message from the President

On behalf of the organizing committee, it is a special privilege and pleasure to invite you to VIII Master Class in Vitiligo and Pigmentary disorders along with 2nd PIGMENT Meeting (Second Annual Meeting of Vitiligo Academy of India), to be held on November 28-30, 2014 at Hotel Raddison Blu, Amritsar.

Master Class in Vitiligo supported by Vitiligo Research Foundation are regularly organized all over the World and we will be striving hard to make this event an excellent academic feast. This meeting is also supported by World Health Academy and Asian Society for Pigment Cell Research. We plan to offer you a veritable scientific feast of expert speakers, practice-oriented and clinically relevant topics and a greater tilt towards delegate participation during the deliberations. There will be many consensus meetings, round table discussion and potential International Collaborative opportunities.

We are in the process of inviting International experts who are true pioneers in the this field to share with us their unique experiences and offer new perspectives. While ensuring that necessary scientific program will be kept on track, we will be daring to be different. We will be planning live workshop, hands on session and other innovative sessions which will feature series of special programs. This promises to be better than ever.

Looking forward to welcome you to this mega academic feast!

Prof. Davinder Parsad, MD

Location info

Amritsar (Punjabi: ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤਸਰ) historically also known as Rāmdāspur and colloquially as Ambarsar, since 1574. It is the largest and most important city of the Punjab state in India. It lies about 15 miles (25 km) east of the border with Pakistan.

Amritsar is the spiritual centre for the Sikh religion and the site of the Sikhs’ principal place of worship—the Harimandir, or Golden Temple. This important Sikh shrine attracts more visitors than the Taj Mahal with more than 100,000 visitors on week days alone. The 2011 Indian census reported the population of the city to be 1,132,761. 

Amritsar has a semiarid climate, typical of Northwestern India and experiences four seasons primarily: winter season (November to March) with temperature ranges from 4 °C (39 °F) to about 19 °C (66 °F), summer season (April to June) where temperatures can reach 45 °C (113 °F), monsoon season (July to September) and post-monsoon season (September to November).

Turkey’s largest city, stratling two continent, the unique and majestic city of Istanbul was the site of the 7th Masterclass on vitiligo and other pigmentary disorders, hosted by Congress President Prof. Sibel Alper. It was sponsored by the Vitiligo Research Foundation, the World Health Academy, and Florence Nightingale Hospital. The latter was named in honor of the founder of modern nursing, whose legendary aid to wounded soldiers during the Crimean War of 1853 to 1856 should be recalled with respect and admiration.

T.C. Bilim University Rector Professor Çavlan Çiftçi and Congress President Prof. Sibel Alper began the opening ceremony (Photo 2) with welcoming remarks followed by the awarding special memorial plaques to Torello M. Lotti and Robert A. Schwartz, and a stellar lecture by Prof. Lotti on vitiligo as a systemic disease. 

Robert A. Schwartz stressed anti-oxidant therapy for vitiligo, applauding the work of Davinder Parsad on gingko and Jim Harris on statins, the latter proudly funded in part by the VR Foundation. Esteemed participants included Torello Lotti (Italy), Davinder Parsad (India), Miroslava Kadurina (Bulgaria), Emel Erdal Çalıkoğlu (Turkey), Yan Valle (Canada), Murat Borlu (Turkey), Meltem Önder (Turkey), Igor Korobko (Russia), Brian W. Lee (USA), Paulo Cunha (Brazil), Ercan Arca (Turkey), Robert A. Schwartz (USA), Ilgen Ertam (Turkey), Erçin Özüntürk (Turkey) and Özlem Dicle (Turkey). Ercan Arca covered quality of life considerations for patients with vitiligo. Davinder Parsad delineated herbal therapy (Photo 3). Igor Korobko anticipated pigmentary therapeutic challenges. Murat Borlu articulated concerned about melasma and other hypermelanoses, with Emel Erdal Çalıkoğlu explaining their pathophysiology and Paulo Cunha analyzing treatment options. Meltem Önder extolled use of the excimer laser (Photo 5). Brian W. Lee defined phototherapy future prospects for 2015 (Photo 6). Yan Valle explained drug development realities and in a separate lecture the value of vitiligo cloud banking (Photo 7). 

There were a variety of practical presentations too, including on enzymatic peeling combination protocols with the Q Switch / Fractional laser by given by Burcu Yamangöktürk Solak and the treatment of pigmented and vascular lesions by the Limelight Enlighten Picosecond System and Nd:YAG Laser provided by Yasemin Koyuncu Saray (Photo 8).  Prof. Mira Kadurina MD, PhD, DSc, the Head of Department of Dermatology and Allergology of the Military Medical Academy welcomed participants to Sofia, Bulgaria on May 23-24, 2015 to the upcoming IX Masterclass (Photo 9). Congress President Prof. Sibel Alper received accolades from attendees and speakers alike, some of whom toured Istanbul (Photo 10).

Robert A. Schwartz MD, MPH
Newark, New Jersey

Davinder Parsad MD
Chandigarh, India

Download Report (published by Indian Journal of Dermatology Volume 60 Issue 3 May-June 2015) (PDF, 15Mb)

Photo 1.  Master Class registration by Prof. Torello Lotti

Photo 2. Congress President Sibel Alper welcomes participants

Photo 3. Prof. Davinder Parsad gives talk on herbal therapies.

Photo 4. T.C. Bilim University Rector Professor Çavlan Çiftçi and Congress President Prof. Sibel Alper give special accolade to Torello M. Lotti

Photo 5. Prof. Meltem Önder provides an enlightening lecture

Photo 6. Brian W. Lee represents America with an update on phototherapy

Photo 7. Yan Valle provides overview of vitiligo research mission

Photo 8. Practical demonstrations illuminated hands-on experience

Photo 9. Prof. Mira Kadurina MD, PhD, DSc discusses her upcoming IX Masterclass in Sofia schedule for May 2015.

Photo 10. Participants Brian W. Lee and Prof. Robert A. Schwartz at the Sultan Ahmed Blue Mosque

Where: İstanbul Florence Nightingale Hospital Conference Center, Istanbul, Turkey
When: November 22-23, 2014

Official website: www.vitiligoistanbul.com (expired)

Download the 1st Announcement 

Our Vth Master Class will provide participants with an overview of vitiligo, including basic science, diagnosis, its treatment options, dealing with complex cases and co-morbidities, and the latest research in the field. It is envisaged that a total of four educational modules will address interesting, relevant, and complex issues covering the entire depth and breadth of vitiligo. Throughout the program we will use clinical based studies to highlight current treatments and to combine theory and clinical practice.

The morning sessions will cover a variety of important areas in vitiligo pathophysiology. During two highly interactive afternoons, you will be updated on the management of a variety of vitiligo symptoms that you may see at the clinic. You will also learn how to create an electronic patient record and how you may be involved in coordinated care of this chronic skin disease.

When: April 14-15 and 16-17, 2014
Where: Almaty, Shymkent (Kazakhstan)

Venues:
- Almaty: Кафедра дерматовенерологии и эстетической медицины Института последипломного образования Казахского Национального Медицинского Университета имени С.Д. Асфендиярова
- Shymkent: Областной дерматовенерологический диспансер Южно-Казахстанской области

Spoken languages: Russian, English

Download Preliminary Program (Rus) (pdf)

Preliminary Program / Предварительная программа

Раздел 1. Биологические аспекты витилиго

Биология витилиго (Игорь Коробко)

• Витилиго с точки зрения клеточной биологии
• Факторы генетической предрасположенности к витилиго
• Механизмы патогенеза витилиго: индукторы и драйверы процесса депигментации
• Сегментарное витилиго: заболевание с отдельной этиологией
• Молекулярные и клеточные механизмы феномена Кобнера
• Каким должна быть терапия для остановки прогрессии витилиго и профилактики обострения: выводы на основании известных механизмов патогенеза
• Репигментация при витилиго: резервуары меланоцитов. Лейкотрихия
• Аутокринные и паракринные факторы, контролирующие меланогенез
• Локальные нарушения спектра цитокинов и факторов роста при витилиго. Дисфункция кератиноцитов
• 'Трудные' для репигментации локализации: почему 'трудные'?
• Какие цели должна преследовать терапия витилиго, направленная на репигментацию: взгляд со стороны молекулярной и клеточной биологии
• Почему не всегда удается добиться репигментации

Обзор методов лечения витилиго и механизмы их действия (Игорь Коробко)

• Классификация методов лечения
• Фототерапия (узкополосный УФБ, эксимерный лазер, эксимерный свет, солнце, Фотосил, широкополосный УФБ, УФА; местная и системная фототерапия)
• Фотохимиотерапия (PUVA-терапия, bath-PUVA, PUVAsol, местная PUVA-терапия). Хеллины
• Климатотерапия (Мертвое море, имитация лечения на Мертвом море)
• Системное лечение для остановки прогрессии витилиго (стероиды; экспериментальные методы: иммуномодуляторы, гинко билоба, лефлуномид, аспирин, дапсон, миноциклин)
• Препараты местного действия (ингибиторы кальцинейрина, стероиды; экспериментальные методы: 5-фторурацил, простагландины, аналоги витимина Д)
• Антиоксиданты
• Препараты растительного происхождения
• Механические методы: дермабразия, лазерная абляции, needling, окклюзия
• Хирургические методы: тканевые и клеточные графты, трансплантация волосяных фолликул. Критерии применимости хирургических методов
• Преимущества комбинированной терапии в лечении витилиго
• Факторы, влияющие на эффективность лечения: возраст, длительность заболевания, локализация очагов, тип витилиго
• Депигментация как способ лечения
• Камуфляж

Витилиго, меланома и другие типы рака кожи (Игорь Коробко)

• Схожесть механизмов прогрессии витилиго и защиты организма от меланомы
• Меланома при диагностике витилиго
• Факторы канцерогенеза при витилиго
• Предрасположенность пациентов с витилиго к раку кожи: данные исследований
• Фототерапия витилиго: угроза рака кожи?

Раздел 2. Эпидемиологические и психологические аспекты витилиго

Эпидемиология витилиго (Игорь Коробко)

• Распространенность витилиго. Гендерные и возрастные параметры, влияние присутствия семейной истории витилиго
• Сопутствующие витилиго заболевания: какие и как часто?

Психоэмоциональные аспекты витилиго (Игорь Коробко)

• Инструменты объективной оценки влияния витилиго на качество жизни. Индекс DLQI
• Влияние витилиго на качество жизни пациентов. Сравнительный анализ с другими дерматологическими заболеваниями
• Субъективное мнение пациента как критерий оценки эффективности лечения

Раздел 3. Клинические аспекты ведения пациентов с витилиго

Объективные методы оценки состояния пациентов с витилиго (Игорь Коробко)

• Количественная оценка активности витилиго по шкале VIDA. Критерии стабильности витилиго
• Объективная оценка клинических параметров и эффективности лечения. Фотофиксация. Шкала VASI

Клинические аспекты и лечение витилиго (Константин Ломоносов)

• Витилиго. Характерные признаки заболевания. Инфекционность, физический и психологический дискомфорт
• Типы витилиго. Активное и стабильное витилиго
• Клиническая диагностика витилиго. Дифференциальная диагностика со схожими заболеваниями. Необходимость лабораторных исследований
• Общая парадигма лечения витилиго: стабилизация, репигментация, профилактика
• Выбор стратегии ведения пациента с витилиго. Препараты для лечения витилиго в РФ и странах бывшего СНГ.
• Особенности ведения пациентов с витилиго. Заинтересованность пациента.
• Солнцезащитные составы. Камуфляж
• Депигментация как способ лечения

Иммуномодуляторы в лечении витилиго (Игорь Коробко)

• Предпосылки для применения иммуномодуляторов для лечения витилиго
• Препарат «Неовир» в лечении витилиго: результаты клинических исследований и мета-анализ данных
• Предикативные факторы эффективности лечения препаратом «Неовир»
• Препарат «Иммуномакс» в лечении витилиго
• Предикативные факторы эффективности лечения препаратом «Иммуномакс»
• Выбор между препаратами «Неовир» и «Иммуномакс» в лечении витилиго
• Дальнейшие перспективы: от монотерапии к комплексной терапии, от лечения к профилактике

Презентация показательных случаев витилиго из клинической практики (Константин Ломоносов)

• Примеры практического применения методов диагностики, лечения витилиго и его эффективности на практике (рассмотрение показательных клинических случаев)

Локальные особенности, методы и опыт лечения витилиго (представитель(и) местного дерматологического сообщества)

• Практический опыт лечения витилиго с учетом локальных особенностей

Раздел 4. Инновации в области менеджмента витилиго

Биобанк Витилиго (Vitiligo BioBank) (Ян Валле)

• Биобанк, как систематизированное хранилище био-образцов и историй болезни
• Необходимость Биобанка Витилиго для разработки терапии: влияние на исследования и клиническую практику
• Концепция Биобанка Витилиго: стандартные операционные процедуры, этические аспекты, сетевой принцип организации
• Биобанк Витилиго сегодня

Био-информационная система Vitiligo CloudBank (Ян Валле)

• Vitiligo CloudBank как единая платформа для пациентов, врачей и исследователей
• Специализированная электронная история болезни пациента с витилиго: новые возможности для дерматолога
• Знакомство с системой Vitiligo CloudBank в интерфейсе врача, демонстрация возможностей системы
• Как получить доступ к работе в системе Vitiligo CloudBank

Круглый стол

• Обсуждение случаев из клинической практики. Обмен опытом. Вопросы и ответы.

Подведение итогов

Сотрудничество пациентов, врачей и исследователей в разработке лекарства от витилиго (Ян Валле)

• Всемирная Карта Витилиго
• Координированные усилия по сбору клинических и эпидемиологических данных
• Программа поддержки исследований VR Foundation
• Кампания «25 Июня. Всемирный День Витилиго»

Лекторы:

• Ян Валле, MBA, MSc
Главный исполнительный директор VR Foundation
• Игорь Коробко, д.б.н.
Главный научный директор VR Foundation
• Константин Ломоносов, д.м.н., проф.
Кафедра кожных и венерических болезней имени В.А. Рахманова, Первый Московский государственный медицинский университет имени И.М. Сеченова
• Касымханова Алия, к.м.н.
Врач-дерматовенеролог, физиотерапевт, заведующая физиотерапевтическим отделением областного дерматовенерологического диспансера ЮКО
• Оспанова Санимбала, к.м.н.
Врач-дерматовенеролог, дерматокосметолог, доцент кафедры дерматовенерологии и эстетической медицины Института последипломного образования КазНМУ имени С.Д. Асфендиярова

День 1

10.00 – 10.05 Вступительное слово (TBD)
10.05 – 10.20 Вводная лекция. Некоммерческий фонд по изучению витилиго VR Foundation (Ян Валле)
10.20 – 11.20 Биология витилиго (Игорь Коробко)
11.20 – 11.35 Перерыв
11.35 – 12.30 Обзор методов лечения витилиго и механизмы их действия (Игорь Коробко)
12.30 – 13.00 Вопросы и ответы
13.00 – 14.30 Обед
14.30 – 14.45 Витилиго, меланома и другие типы рака кожи (Игорь Коробко)
14.45 – 15.00 Эпидемиология витилиго (Игорь Коробко)
15.00 – 15.15 Психоэмоциональные аспекты витилиго (Игорь Коробко)
15.15 – 15.30 Объективные методы оценки состояния пациентов с витилиго (Игорь Коробко)
15.30 – 16.00 Вопросы и ответы

День 2

10.00 – 10.40 Клинические аспекты и лечение витилиго (Константин Ломоносов)
10.40 – 10.55 Иммуномодуляторы в лечении витилиго (Игорь Коробко)
10.55 – 11.25 Презентация показательных случаев витилиго из клинической практики (Константин Ломоносов)
11.25 – 11.40 Перерыв
11.40 – 12.20 Особенности фототерапии витилиго в Казахстане. Презентация результатов лечения (Алия Касымханова)
12.20 – 13.00 Локальные особенности, методы и опыт лечения витилиго (Санимбала Оспанова)
13.00 – 14.30 Обед
14.30 – 14.45 Биобанк Витилиго (Vitiligo BioBank) (Ян Валле)
14.45 – 15.15 Био-информационная система Vitiligo CloudBank (Ян Валле)
15.15 – 16.00 Вопросы и ответы (круглый стол)
16.00 – 16.15 Подведение итогов. Сотрудничество пациентов, врачей и исследователей в разработке лекарства от витилиго (Ян Валле)

Контакты:

КазНМУ имени С.Д. Асфендиярова
Республика Казахстан
город Алматы
проспект Райымбека 50А
+ 7 701 538 7012
sanimbala@mail.ru

ОДВД ЮКО
Республика Казахстан
город Шымкент
пр. Жибек жолы б/н
+7 747 421 39 61
a_kassymkhanova@mail.ru

Around fifty-five dermatologists from three countries participated in the IV Master Class on Vitiligo, held at the Tbilisi State Medical University in collaboration with Georgian Vitiligo Support Group under the Chairmanship of Professor Nino Tsiskarishvili, MD on November 8-9, 2013. The unique format of our Master Class program is designed to ignite change in vitiligo treatment paradigm by providing a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience by knowledge experts to help physicians gain new skills in a participatory and interactive setting.

Our special thanks to Professor Nino Tsiskarishvili for organizing this high energy event, with legendary Georgian hospitality.

Chief Scientific Director Dr. Korobko talks about various vitiligo treatment modalities.

Closing remarks from Professor Nino Tsiskarishvili, MD.

Thanks to Tbisilisi Medical State University for hosting this event.

IV Master Class was held in Russian, a commonly used language in Georgia:

11.00-11.10
Вступительное слово (Нино Цискарашвили)

11.10-11.30
VR Foundation: комплексный подход к решению проблемы витилиго (Ян Валле)

11.30-11.50
Биология витилиго: ключ к эффективному лечению (Игорь Коробко)

11.50-12.10
Cloudy: объединяя исследования и врачебную практику в области витилиго (Ян Валле)

12.10-12.30
Обзор традиционных и экспериментальных методов лечения витилиго (Игорь Коробко)

12.30-12.40
Витилиго и меланома (Игорь Коробко)

12.40-13.00
Перерыв

13.00-13.15
Классификация и диагностика витилиго (Константин Ломоносов)

13.15-13.45
Ведение пациентов с витилиго на практике (Константин Ломоносов)

13.45-14.00
Иммуномодуляторы в терапии витилиго: результаты клинических исследований (Игорь Коробко)

UPDATED: III Vitiligo Master Class Report and Photos

When: October 25-26, 2013

Where: Sao Paulo, Brazil

Official website:

http://www.sbd.org.br/comunicado/default.aspx

Message from the President

When we conceived the idea of bringing the 3rd Master Class on Vitiligo to Brazil we immediately had the enthusiastic support of the executive board of Brazilian Society of Dermatology, as well as the support of other presidents of international societies such as: WHA, VRF, EADV and CILAD.

Since then we have been working tirelessly in the organization of this event, which will represent new achievements in national and global dermatology. Our commitment is to offer participants the chance to access the most recent advances in the treatment of vitiligo and other pigmentary disorders. We are gathering together renowned Brazilian and international dermatologists, who will share their knowledge with all the participants. I am proud with the opportunity to preside over this event, which will enhance the role of dermatology worldwide.

I would like to thank those involved in planning committee, especially Dr. Denise Steiner (President of SBD), Dr. Jana Hercogova (President of EADV), Dr. Torello Lotti (President of WHA) and Mr. Yan Valle (CEO VR Foundation).

I am looking forward to welcoming all of you to this special dermatological event.

Yours sincerely,

Paulo R. Cunha, MD, PhD

President of the III Master Class
on Vitiligo and Pigmentary
Diseases BRAZIL - 2013

Download the Poster (pdf, 961KB) and Preliminary Program (pdf, 4.82MB)

Mensagem do Presidente

Quando vislumbrei a possibilidade de trazer o III Master Class on Vitiligo and Pigmentary Diseases – 2013 para o nosso país, de imediato, recebi o entusiástico apoio da Diretoria Executiva da Sociedade Brasileira de Dermatologia (SBD), e também o suporte dos presidentes de outras importantes sociedades internacionais, tais como: World Health Academy (WHA), Vitiligo Research Foundation (VRF), European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) e Colegio Ibero - Latino - Americano de Dermatologia (CILAD). Desde então estamos trabalhando arduamente na organização deste evento, que representará novas conquistas para a dermatologia brasileira e mundial.

Nosso compromisso é oferecer aos participantes a oportunidade de atualização nos mais recentes avanços em Vitiligo e outros distúrbios da pigmentação. Teremos a oportunidade de reunir renomados dermatologistas brasileiros e internacionais que irão compartilhar seus conhecimentos com todos os participantes. Estou orgulhoso de ter a oportunidade de presidir este evento, que deverá enaltecer e enriquecer a dermatologia nacional e internacional.

Gostaria de agradecer a toda comissão organizadora, especialmente a Dra. Denise Steiner (Presidente da SBD), a Dra. Jana Hercogova (Presidente da EADV), o Dr.Torello Lotti (Presidente da WHA), e Sr. Yan Valle (Presidente da VRF).

Aguardamos vocês para esta ocasião especial.

Cordialmente,

Paulo R. Cunha, MD, PhD
Presidente - III Master Class
em Vitiligo e Doenças
Pigmentares - BRASIL - 2013

VR Foundation held its first Master-Class on Vitiligo and Pigmentary Disorders in Barcelona, Spain on November 2-5, 2011. 35 delegates from 26 countries attended, mostly from Europe, some from Eastern Europe, and as far away as Tanzania and the United States.

The welcoming plenary was opened by VRF Chair of the Board Prof. Torello Lotti, then delegates from national dermatological associations focused on formal classes and case presentations prepared by participants. The Master Class was facilitated by Prof. Jana Hercogova, the President-Elect of the EADV, who introduced materials to guide the discussions, and encouraged interaction between delegates to discuss issues and ideas.

Barcelona, Spain. 2-5 November 2011

Grant Award Announcement

You may find the presentation here.

Letter from the President

Dear Colleagues,

In today's competitive world of Dermatology, education and continuous training are the key to success and employability.

Pigmentary Disorders of the skin are seen very often by the Dermatologists and not always properly diagnosed and treated. Training supported and funded by the VRF provides you with the competitive edge because of its strong clinical-practical orientation in the field of Pigmentary Disorders of the Skin.

Following this residential interactive meeting funded by the VRF, the attendees will be able to :

• understand the biology of human melanocytes;
• develop a strategy to diagnose all clinical forms of vitiligo and related disorders and the other common ( benign and malignant ) pigmentary disorders;
• identify the most rational and well accepted conventional and innovative therapies for treating both the symptoms and the signs of the pigmentary disorder and the self-esteem decline of the sufferers.

A special session for discussing the most paradigmatic clinical cases presented by the same attendees has been included in the scientific program. Residents and practicing dermatologists will be encouraged to actively engage in the discussion at each and every stages of the workshop.

Each Scientific Community of all European Countries is entitled to appoint one resident or young practicing dermatologist as participant to the School in agreement with the National Dermatological Society. The VR Foundation offers to 50 appointed European Dermatology Residents free tuition, free hotel accommodation in a comfortable double room with breakfast, free lunchbox during the breaks, it also provides compensation of up to €250 in travel expenses and absorbs registration fee.

Moreover, the most brilliant participant in the research field and clinical cases presentation, will be selected to receive a stipend of USD 12.000,00 for 2012, to encourage an active participation in the program.

Prof. Dr. Torello Lotti, MD
Chair of the Board, VR Foundation

PRELIMINARY PROGRAM

Speakers:
Prof. Augustin Alomar (Spain)
Prof. Jana Hercogova (Czech Republic)
Prof. Torello Lotti (Italy)
Dr. Yan Valle (Canada).

Participants: Residents of Dermato-venereology of all European Countries
November 2nd, 2011 (Wednesday)

Arrival
18:00-18:30 Presentation of the VR Foundation
18:30-19:00 Presentation of the participants
19:00-19:30 Master Class vision and mission
19:30 Welcome cocktail and dinner

November 3rd, 2011 (Thursday)

Skin pigmentation: basic principles
8:30-9:00 Case presentations
9:00-9:45 Biology of melanocyte
9:45-10:30 Patophysiology of melanocytes
10:30-10:45 coffee break
10:45-11:30 Color of the skin
11:30-12:15 Quality of life in pigmentary skin disorders
12:15-13:00 Case presentations
13:00-15:00 Lunch

Vitiligo: part I
15:00-15:45 Epidemiology, pathophysiology
15:45-16:30 Clinical presentation and classification
16:30-17:15 Differential diagnosis of hypomelanoses
17:15-17:30 coffee break
17:30-19:00 Case presentations
21:00 Dinner

November 4th, 2011 (Friday)

Vitiligo: part II
8:30-9:00 Case presentations
9:00-9:45 Medical treatments
9:45-10:30 Surgical treatments
10:30 coffee break
10:45-11:30 Physical treatments
11:30-12:15 Combination therapy
12:15-13:00 Case presentations
13:00-15:00 lunch

Hypermelanoses
15:00-15:45 Melasma – epidemiology, classification, pathophysiology
15:45-16:30 Melasma differential diagnosis
16:30-16:45 coffee break
16:45-17:30 Melasma and hypermelanoses medical treatments
17:30-18:15 Melasma and hypermelanoses physical treatments and combination therapy
18:15-18:00 Case presentations
21:00 dinner

November 5th, 2011 (Saturday)

Naevi and melanoma
8:30-9:00 Case presentations
9:00-9:45 Melanocytic naevi
9:45-10:30 Melanoma – epidemiology, etiopathogenesis and prevention
10:30-10:45 coffee break
10:45-11:30 Diagnosis – clinical and instrumental
11:30-12:15 Therapeutic approach to melanoma
12:15-13:00 Controversies in melanoma
13:00 Closing ceremony and participations certificates
13:30 Farewell lunch
Departure

Updated on January 25, 2013: official report by ISD Journal

The 2012 International VRF-China Masterclass on Vitiligo and pigmentary disorders was held in the historic former Manchu capital of Shenyang, in northeastern China, on November 16-18, 2012. This symposium is a globally significant meeting on vitiligo which this year brought together dermatology experts from around the world to share the latest research and techniques for treating vitiligo. The conference was generously hosted by China Medical University and sponsored by the Vitiligo Research Foundation (VRF), China Medical University (CMU), and the Shenyang Institute of Science and Technology. 

Congress President Prof. Xing-Hua Gao was ably assisted by Honorary Presidents Prof. Hong-Duo Chen, Prof. Torello M. Lotti (Italy) and CMU President Zhao Qun together with an enthusiastic and an energetic group of participating faculty members and young physicians, in bringing together a highly successful event.

The Master-class was opened by a welcoming address from Prof. Hong-Duo Chen and an introduction by the VRF Chief Executive Officer Yan Valle (Canada) describing the VRF as a charitable organization dedicated to promoting awareness and finding a cure for vitiligo. A huge amount of information was exchanged with presentations given by experts from around the world.

To briefly summarize; Prof. Jian-Zhong Zhang (Beijing), President of the Chinese Society of Dermatology gave a lecture on vitiligo epidemiology in specific regions of China. Prof. Andy Goran from the United States made a presentation on next generation phototherapy. Prof. Jana Hercogová (Czech Republic) expounded on the medical treatment of melasma and other hypermelanoses. Prof. Tian-Wen Gao (Xi’an) talked about phototherapy for vitiligo patients and Prof. Torello M. Lotti (Italy) discussed combination therapy for vitiligo.

Prof. Hong guang Lu (Guiyang) provided an overview of melanin pigmentation in different races as well as in in vitiligo. Prof. Yuan-Hong Li (Shenyang) was able to provide information about promising results when treating melasma using fractional ruby laser and Rina Wu (Hohhot), Chairman of the Chinese Society of Inner Mongolia Institute of Dermatology, also provided valuable insights into vitiligo. Prof. Robert A. Schwartz (USA) gave an address that was mainly focused on anti-oxidant therapy for vitiligo and he especially observed that the gingko is China’s national tree and a rich source of anti-oxidants. Prof. Schwartz was also awarded the title of Honorary Professor of China Medical University by University President Prof. Zhang Cun.

At the conclusion of the symposium the announcement of a VR Foundation special grant of 50,000 USD for vitiligo research based in China was also made by the Prof. Xing-Hua Gao. The focus of the grant is on achieving new breakthroughs in research into the causes of vitiligo and into finding new treatment modes.

For more details, please visit the official site (a new browser window will open) or download the MVPD program

Read the welcome note from CEO Yan Valle: 'VR Foundation: opportunities for grants and partnerships in vitiligo.' The special grant program to support vitiligo research in China was announced at the MVPD.

Fig. 1. 2012 International VRF-China Master Class

Fig. 2. Welcome dinner for participants

Fig. 3. Plenary Hall

Fig. 4. Prof. Robert A. Schwartz during presentation

Fig. 5. Prof. Xing Hua Gao is making a Special Grant Announcement

Fig. 6. Speakers and Participants of the Master Class

For more detailed information about speakers please go here.

Download Grant Announcement or Vitiligo Q&A in Chinese