Vitiligo Prognosis — SCE Dermatology MCQ
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Correct answer: E — Approximately 50-70% of patients achieve some repigmentation with treatment; facial/neck areas respond best
Overall, approximately 50-70% of vitiligo patients achieve some degree of repigmentation with appropriate treatment. Response rates vary by anatomical site: face and neck respond best (60-70% achieve >75% repigmentation), trunk moderately (40-50%), and acral areas poorly (<20%). Segmental vitiligo may respond well to surgical melanocyte transplantation. Spontaneous repigmentation (without treatment) occurs in approximately 15-25% of patients, typically perifollicular in pattern. The psychological impact of vitiligo is significant — patients should be offered psychological support alongside physical treatment. Long-term maintenance therapy (topical TCI or NB-UVB) may be needed to prevent recurrence.
Reference: BAD 2021 Vitiligo; BJD