Vitiligo and thyroid disease

The guidelines for vitiligo treatment published by the British Association of dermatologists in 2008 recommend screening for thyroid disease in vitiligo patients.

The guidelines for vitiligo treatment published by the British Association of dermatologists in 2008 recommend screening for thyroid disease in vitiligo patients.

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.

The excimer laser was invented in the 70s and uses a combination of two gases and electrical stimulation to create a laser light in the UV range. Currently, the most widespread therapy for the repigmentation of vitiligo spots relies on narrow band UV radiation with a wavelength of 311nM (nbUVB), emitted by a medical light bulb. This light can also be produced using excimer technology, with the advantage of laser’s precision, controlled dosage and good response from the skin.