How long should I undergo phototherapy to cure vitiligo in my palms, fingers, and lips?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 19-year-old, have vitiligo and I am taking phototherapy along with medicines for about six months now. The white spots on the palms and fingers in hands and in lips have not spread but some spots have become darker. How long will it take for it to cure? Should I consider other kinds of treatments? Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Vitiligo on palms and soles are usually quite resistant to therapy and takes a very long time depending upon the extent of involvement. Also, there are chances that it may not completely resolve too in such locations. Phototherapy is a safe and effective treatment approach and you can continue the same as you have noted areas of repigmentation. Surgical modalities such as punch grafting can be considered only after the disease is stable for more than a year. I suggest trying topical steroids in addition to phototherapy. The duration of the response is variable and may take up to a year or two. I hope I have cleared all your doubts.

Thank you.