Vitiligo Zone

Focal vitiligo is characterized by a few scattered macules. In some cases the depigmenation remains localized to these spots. For others, focal vitiligo can be a manifestation for general vitiligo.

In order for repigmentation to occur in vitiligo, pigment cells must be found in one of these three locations: the hair follicle unit, the border of a vitiligo lesion or unaffected melanocites within depigmented areas.

A bill initiated in by Brazilian representative José Olimpio pursues hospitals to provide psychological assistance to people with vitiligo. The text proposes that psychological treatment could be offered after an initial assessment by a psychologist.

The Koebner phenomenon refers to the development of new lesions following skin trauma. This occurs in patients with certain skin disease in areas of traumatized but otherwise normal skin. The new lesions are clinically identical to those in diseased skin.

Some dermatologists recommend patients to cosmetically cover their vitiligo spots. This is associated with an improved quality of life since it reduces public stares or remarks. On the downside, covering up with makeup is time consuming - interfering with daily activities and in some cases, distress generating – the concern of permanently hiding something

Following a strict plan of UV sessions like the one needed for vitiligo treatment can be a daunting task. Up to 6 months of home photo-therapy with 3 or 4 weekly sessions take a lot of time. Missing out on a UV session can result in a decrease of the overall efficiency of the treatment.

We've went around the online shops selling UVB lamps and picked up the prices for hand-held units. As you can see prices vary depending on the producer/design/and functions. More details about two of the lamps in our old article, Vitiligo nbUVB lamps comparison

Clinuvel, the company developing a new drug for vitiligo has published another press release. I've had the chance to ask Lacian Hay, Head of Clinuvel's Global Network and Communications a few questions not covered in the original text of the press release but of practical importance to vitiligo patients.

A new drug called Scenesse is being developed and tested by Clinuvel, an Australian company. Currently it is in phase II and III of clinical trials. Clinuvel states that it's product will be an effective therapy in nonsegmental vitiligo (symmetry in the vitiligo spots on one's body).

A clear date for it's commercial release is not yet known.