What are the advantages of epidermal grafting for vitiligo?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on October 22, 2024
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Epidermal grafting is suitable for vitiligo in its stable phase, where patches on the body have not changed for at least six months and have not improved with treatment. At this stage, one can opt for epidermal grafting, which involves relatively minor trauma and is not too costly. The local growth of melanin is rapid, and the results tend to be favorable for patients in the stable phase. During the treatment period, it's essential to avoid spicy and irritating foods, consume more black-colored foods, avoid excessive intake of vitamin C-rich foods, enhance physical exercise to boost immunity, and keep the treated area dry and free from friction to prevent melanin loss.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
1min home-news-image

Is the appearance of white spots on the back vitiligo?

White patches on the back are not necessarily vitiligo; they could also be tinea versicolor. Tinea versicolor is caused by a fungal infection, generally contagious, and may gradually increase in number after the appearance of one. Additionally, these patches are somewhat blurry in color, not the porcelain white typically seen with vitiligo. If it is vitiligo, the situation is more complicated, and it is necessary to seek formal treatment at a dermatology department of a standard hospital. In the current situation, it is advisable to visit a dermatology department in a formal hospital and use a Wood's lamp or dermatoscope for differential diagnosis to definitively determine if the condition is vitiligo. If it is tinea versicolor, applying antifungal cream alone can completely cure it. If it is vitiligo, a comprehensive treatment is required, involving oral and topical medications, along with 308-nm excimer laser therapy.

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Written by Zeng Xian Fu
General Surgery
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Is the effect of epidermal grafting surgery for vitiligo good?

Vitiligo can be treated with epidermal grafting. Currently, patients with stable conditions, including localized vitiligo and segmental vitiligo, can achieve good results from the transplantation of epidermal pigments. The treatment method involves selecting the skin epidermis from the thigh or abdomen, using an epidermis separator to detach the epidermis, and attaching the skin flap to the depigmented spots, which are polished. This method can effectively treat localized or stable vitiligo and achieve satisfactory results. Therefore, skin grafting surgery for vitiligo can be quite effective. However, the occurrence of vitiligo is related to the immune system, and there is still a possibility of recurrence after successful treatment.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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How to diagnose vitiligo in babies?

Babies diagnosed with vitiligo generally need to be differentiated from the following diseases. The first is anemic nevus, which is a congenital hypopigmentation that often exists at birth. If you rub the skin in the affected area, it does not turn red, while the surrounding normal skin does. Another is achromic nevus, which appears at or shortly after birth, characterized by localized hypopigmentation that often follows the distribution of nerve segments, with blurry boundaries. Additionally, there is tinea versicolor, which tends to occur in hot weather, with hypopigmented patches that have a bran-like or scaly appearance and a positive fungal test. It also needs to be differentiated from pityriasis alba, also known as white pityriasis, which commonly appears on children's faces and has a slightly rough surface. Generally, vitiligo diagnosis still requires further confirmation through tests such as Wood's lamp, dermatoscopy, skin CT, and fungal examinations.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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The usual sites of onset for vitiligo are generally where?

Vitiligo can occur in a wide range of areas on the body, including the skin, torso, face, scalp, and even male-specific areas such as the scrotum, foreskin, and glans. It can also appear on the mucous membranes of the lips. Once this disease is diagnosed, it is essential to undergo formal treatment. Patients should visit a dermatology department at a standard hospital and receive a combination of oral and topical medications. Using a 308 nm excalibur laser can enhance the treatment effects, particularly on mucosal areas where healing tends to be slower; persistence over a long period is crucial. During treatment, it is important to exercise regularly, strengthen immunity, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and refrain from staying up late.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Can people with vitiligo eat peaches?

People with vitiligo can eat peaches. Peaches are rich in vitamins and also contain a substantial amount of iron. In traditional Chinese medicine, peaches are said to nourish yin, generate fluids, moisturize the intestines, and facilitate bowel movements. They are considered a good fruit symbolizing fortune, prosperity, and longevity. Although long-term excessive intake of vitamin C is one of the triggers for vitiligo, vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant. It helps the body eliminate free radicals, which, when in excess, can damage our body's melanocytes. Therefore, appropriately consuming fruits that contain vitamin C, such as peaches, does not affect vitiligo.