Treatment

Whilst there are a number of treatments available which may be of some help in the short term, there is very little evidence for their longterm efficacy or safety (Whitton et al., 2006). Potent topical steroids can sometimes induce repigmentation and although it is not a licensed use the calcineurin inhibitors have shown some effect especially in areas such as the face where potent topical steroids may be particularly damaging. PUVA can also lead to repigmentation, although this may need to be long term. A couple of studies have suggested that PUVA in combination with calcipotriol may be effective, but the long-term results have not been evaluated. A 2008 guideline summarises the treatments for vitiligo along with the level of evidence associated with them (Gawkrodger et al., 2008).