Pharmacological Treatment of Vitiligo and Phototherapy – A Literature Review

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Topicality of the research: Vitiligo is a common and non-infectious skin disease, which characterized by depigmentation. It effects 0,5-2% of the world’s population. Nowadays treatment of vitiligo remains highly relevant. Treatment specializes in elimination depigmentation and restoration of skin’s color. Including pharmacological treatment and phototherapy. There is a problem in choosing specific treatment for patient since the response of the treatment can be different and it’s a chronic pathology. Research aim: Aim of the research is to clarify efficiency, safety and side effects of medications and phototherapy as a treatment of vitiligo. Research objectives: • In order to clarify medications which are used in a treatment of vitiligo. • To compare pharmacological treatment and phototherapy as a monotherapy and combined therapy. • To detect the efficiency between pharmacological treatment and phototherapy. • To determine what kind of side effects are common in practice using such treatment. • To compare what kind of treatment has more advantages and disadvantages in general and from the side of side effects. Method: For substantiating objective findings, several studies from Europe and United States were reviewed. Study results were compared, common findings were highlighted and summarized in order to obtain a broader understanding of the field of treatment’s vitiligo research. Publications were published online 2022 Sep 18, 2021 May 25, 2022 Aug 28. I have used PubMed Medline. Key words are vitiligo, treatment, side effect, corticosteroids, JAK inhibitors. Conclusion: the research underscores the effectiveness of various vitiligo therapies but also highlights their associated adverse effects. While treatments like topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, excimer light therapy, and PUVA therapy show promise in repigmentation, they come with risks ranging from skin reactions to systemic issues and increased cancer risk. Healthcare providers must carefully consider these factors when tailoring treatment plans for patients. Ongoing research is vital to develop safer and more effective therapies, ultimately improving the management of vitiligo and enhancing patient well-being.