What are the characteristics of the stable period of vitiligo?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on October 26, 2024
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The stable phase of vitiligo is defined as a period of at least six months, or even more than a year, during which there are no changes in the localized white patches on the body, regardless of whether treatment is administered or not. During this phase, the white patches neither progress nor recover. Treatments during the stable phase are generally not very effective; oral medications, topical applications, and even treatment with a 308 laser typically show little change. The most common treatment plan during the stable phase still involves melanocyte transplantation. Patients should visit a dermatology department at a certified hospital to get a proper diagnosis and specific treatment. During the treatment period, it is important to enhance physical exercise to boost immunity, consume foods rich in black pigments, and limit intake of foods high in Vitamin C. After recovery, measures should be taken to prevent relapse and consolidate the treatment results.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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When is the contagious period of vitiligo?

Vitiligo is not contagious, so there is no contagious period. The disease is primarily caused by decreased immunity, genetic heredity, lack of copper elements in the body, or local trauma. Overall, the causes of the disease are complex and may vary from person to person. Once diagnosed, it is crucial to seek treatment at a reputable dermatology department in a formal hospital. Treatment typically includes oral medication combined with topical medication and supplemented by 308 laser therapy, which generally yields good results. Since the disease is not contagious, it cannot be transmitted through contact with others. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoid staying up late, exercise regularly, and strengthen the immune system, as these practices can aid in the treatment.

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

People with vitiligo can eat watermelon. Watermelon has the effects of cooling and relieving heat, eliminating irritability, quenching thirst, and promoting urination. From the perspective of Western medicine, it has a diuretic effect, similar to water, and is a fruit commonly eaten in summer. Although long-term excessive intake of vitamin C is one of the inducers of vitiligo, especially when the daily intake exceeds 1-3 grams for several consecutive months, it can induce vitiligo. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, and it helps us clear free radicals in the body. These oxygen free radicals can damage the melanocytes in our body. Vitiligo is also caused by damage to melanocytes, reduced production or excessive loss. Therefore, some experts even use vitamin C to treat vitiligo. Thus, moderate consumption of fruits containing vitamin C, such as watermelon, has no negative impact. There is no need to avoid eating these fresh fruits entirely due to fear of potential effects.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can vitiligo develop into skin cancer?

Vitiligo is a condition where melanin is lost from the epidermis, leading to the formation of white patches on the skin surface; this condition is not related to the skin itself. Vitiligo generally progresses with an increase in the area and whiteness of the patches, or an increase in the number of patches on the body, but it does not develop into skin cancer. Once diagnosed with vitiligo, it is essential to seek standard treatment at the dermatology department of a formal hospital, because the treatment period is relatively long, requires long-term medication, and involves treatment with 308-nm excimer laser. During treatment, it is important to exercise to boost immunity and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Eating more black-colored foods and limiting the intake of foods rich in Vitamin C is advisable. Even after complete recovery, continuing medication for a while to consolidate the treatment is recommended.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Is there a difference between white patches and vitiligo?

White patches and vitiligo have clear distinctions. White patches primarily refer to localized hypopigmentation on the skin, a type of macule where pigment loss occurs due to a reduction in function or number of melanocytes. White patches can appear on the skin due to various reasons or diseases, including post-inflammatory hypopigmentation, tinea versicolor, and pityriasis alba. Vitiligo, on the other hand, usually refers to a specific skin condition. The causes of vitiligo are multiple and can be related to psychological factors, autoimmune dysfunction, leading to the destruction and reduction in melanocytes. The appearance of white patches in localized skin areas is called vitiligo, and its typical lesion is also a localized white patch, which is a type of white patch. Therefore, diseases causing white patches could potentially include vitiligo or other conditions. Vitiligo is just one possible cause of white patches.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Is a white patch on the face vitiligo?

White patches on the face are common, with the most typical being pityriasis alba or pityriasis versicolor. These conditions are generally related to a lack of vitamins, trace elements, or fungal infections on the skin's surface. These types of patches are usually vague, with unclear boundaries and may also have some fine scales on them. The second type of white patch is vitiligo, which is usually much whiter. When examined under a Wood's lamp, they appear bright white and have irregular edges, with a tendency for the patches to expand over time. Another type of white patch is the nevus depigmentosus, which is congenital and present from birth. These patches generally do not expand and are not particularly white. If there is any uncertainty, it is best to consult a dermatologist at a reputable hospital and have it confirmed with a Wood’s lamp or a dermatoscope.