NEWSLETTER

What's New in Vitiligo Treatment

Vitiligo, an autoimmune condition where our body's immune system removes patches of our skin color, has long been a difficult condition to treat. It is seen in children and adults and can indicate that another autoimmune condition should be looked for as well. Most patients go to their dermatologist for treatment due to the embarrassing cosmetic appearance of their skin. If enough skin loses its color, it can be dangerous as then one's skin has no protection from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Many vitiligo sufferers develop skin cancer as a result.

Treatments have included various tar, steroid and vitamin D creams and ointments, ultraviolet light based treatments, and skin grafting. These have been generally ineffective. A new type of laser uses pure 308nm light to spot treat these white lesions one to two times a week. Studies around the world have shown this Excimer laser to be safe and more effective than the other available vitiligo treatments. Treatment may last from 1-8 months to achieve full repigmentation.

A major stumbling block has been insurance coverage for this treatment as many companies are classifying vitiligo as a cosmetic problem. Until then patients will have to pay for this treatment themselves and try to get reimbursed by their insurance companies.

Kay Dermatology has treated hundreds of vitiligo patients. Call for a consultation to see if this treatment is right for you or your family member.

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