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What Causes Penile Vitiligo?

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Posted on Fri, 20 Mar 2015
Question: Hello,
I have penile vitiligo and also a slight bit around my eyes. The bit around my eye isnt noticable and ive had it since 15. It hasnt spread at all. But penile is spreading over the last 5 years and quite noticable. Maybe 20% dipigmented in this area.
So I am keen to try any treatment.
My dermatologist perscribed protopic 1% but advised not to use unless it spread as it is an immune suppresser. My mother has an immune problem of the mouth.
Anyway, I look healthy otherwise.
I want to take it for my penile area, i've just used it for the first time.
Can you advise me the best way to use and what to watch out for in case my immune system was to act strange?
Also, I love beer on the weekend - it says not to use alcohol on the sticket, but my derm didnt mention and i read all can happen is it might heat up face? Not worried about that if it happen.

Thanks
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (22 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
I would advice you don't use it right now!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.

I am so sorry to hear about this vitigo that has been spreading recently. Protopic can make your immune system to become weak. This manifest with you coming down very easily with infections that might not have been of any threat to you in the past. That is why you should weigh the advantages and risk before going ahead with it.

Alcohol is discouraged. Though your doctor forgot to mention this, you should keep away from it. Also remember to rinse your hands thoroughly after use and also avoid bathing too soon after applying medication.

I hope this helps. I wish you well and thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (7 hours later)
Thanks for reply.
So not much to worry about by taking it? I haven't had a cold for years.
I also enjoy beers once a week, so as slong as it wont kill me then i dont mind if i get a few minor symptoms.
I was told it is an effective treatment for most. How long might it take to get full repigment in this area? And should I apply it just once a day for now? And should I avoid using it on the days I drink much alcohol?

Thanks
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (9 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
There would be no repigmentation!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

This drug is to stop progression but cannot guarantee repigmentation. This disease destroys the cells that produce pigment and that cannot be restored. This drug simply prevents further cells destruction by the body.

Alcohol is not a good ingredient for health. If I were to choose for you, you should stay away from alcohol and not the drug on weekends.


I wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (18 minutes later)
Hi,
Well I dont think it's true that it won't repigment. "A period of three to six months is not unusual to see initial results and 100% repigmentation is still difficult, especially on certain parts of the body, such as the hands. "
Some see 100% repigmentation whilst others see less and for a few it wont work at all.

My dermatolist also recommended this as its the best treatment he considers and would most likley work.

It can deactive the cells which can be reactivated once the immune system stops attacking from what i read for many.

For alcohol i dont drink only 5 days a week. I stopped smoking last year as well.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (26 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
I would like you to report progress to me after 3months!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for the follow up details.

Most persons would not regiment. I will like you to put an eye and report the progress to me. If it does, fine but saying with certainty that's what would happen may be misleading. In most cases, it wouldn't.

Definitely, this is not what you would want to hear. However, I will like you take note and report progress to me. It would help me believe more on this regimentation if that happens as stated.

Not that I don't like your recovery but simply being honest. I wish you well. Keep me updated!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (13 minutes later)
Yes, I actually keep a photo diary so I can see the movement. I have a bit of vitiligo around my eye as stated. I actually purchased a steroid cream online and applied it around the area, the one pigmented in to the point you wouldnt notice it, and the other not so well, but much better than it oringially was. (The steroid cream I shouldn't have applied hear because it strong by eyes) so i stopped.

Many report repigmentation. This proved the cells arent dead and can be woken up again. I guess its like been sun burnt, it can easily return to normal skin with right conditions.

I will update if see success.

doctor
Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Thanks and do keep me posted!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I really wish regimentation happens. I will like to know how it goes. Would be happy to se you regain full repigmentation.

I wish you well.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Chobufo Ditah

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 6323 Questions

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What Causes Penile Vitiligo?

Brief Answer: I would advice you don't use it right now! Detailed Answer: Hi and thank you so much for this query. I am so sorry to hear about this vitigo that has been spreading recently. Protopic can make your immune system to become weak. This manifest with you coming down very easily with infections that might not have been of any threat to you in the past. That is why you should weigh the advantages and risk before going ahead with it. Alcohol is discouraged. Though your doctor forgot to mention this, you should keep away from it. Also remember to rinse your hands thoroughly after use and also avoid bathing too soon after applying medication. I hope this helps. I wish you well and thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.