IMPROVEMENT OF VITILIGO AFTER ORAL TREATMENT WITH VITAMIN-B12 AND FOLIC-ACID AND THE IMPORTANCE OF SUN EXPOSURE

The aim of this 2-year study was to test the hypothesis that folic aci d, vitamin B12 and sun exposure could be helpful in treating vitiligo. One hundred patients with vitiligo were treated with oral folic acid and vitamin B12 after being informed that sun exposure might enhance r epigmentation. They were requested to keep a record of sun exposure in summer and UVB irradiation in winter. The minimal treatment time sugg ested was 3-6 months but should be longer if improvement was achieved. Clear repigmentation occurred in 52 patients, including 37 who expose d their skin to summer sun and 6 who used WE lamps in winter. Repigmen tation was most evident on sun-exposed areas, where 38% of the patient s had previously noted repigmentation during summer months. Total repi gmentation was seen in 6 patients. The spread of vitiligo stopped in 6 4% of the patients after treatment. Folic acid and vitamin B12 supplem entation combined with sun exposure can induce repigmentation better t han either the vitamins or sun exposure alone. Treatment should contin ue as long as the white areas continue to repigment. Further studies a re needed to determine ideal minimal dosages of vitamins and UV exposu re, as well as treatment time.