China: Scalp vitiligo, a condition characterized by the loss of skin pigmentation on the scalp, can greatly impact a person's appearance and self-esteem. A recent retrospective study published in The Journal Of Dermatology by Tianjing Wang and colleagues involving 10 patients has unveiled a potential solution that holds promise for those struggling with this condition. Intralesional betamethasone injections have emerged as an effective and safe treatment, offering hope for individuals seeking repigmentation.


Vitiligo is a chronic skin disorder that results in the loss of skin colour due to the destruction of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment. When this condition affects the scalp, it can be particularly challenging as it is more visible and difficult to conceal. In this study, researchers aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of intralesional betamethasone injections in treating scalp vitiligo.
The study involved 10 patients diagnosed with scalp vitiligo. Over the course of 3 months, participants received intralesional injections of betamethasone, a corticosteroid commonly used to reduce inflammation. The results were encouraging, with 6 out of 10 patients experiencing more than 50% repigmentation within the specified timeframe. Impressively, 4 of these patients achieved over 90% repigmentation, showcasing the potential of this treatment approach.
The study also noted that the presence of leukotrichia, a condition characterized by white or colourless hair in vitiligo-affected areas, was linked to a lower rate of repigmentation. Despite this observation, the overall outcomes suggest that intralesional betamethasone injections can be a valuable treatment option for scalp vitiligo, offering the potential to restore natural skin pigmentation and improve patients' quality of life.
The safety profile of the treatment was favourable, with only a few reported adverse events. The main concern was pain during the injection process, which was manageable and temporary. Additionally, there was a single case of reversible skin atrophy, indicating that the treatment should be administered with care and proper medical supervision.
One of the most significant advantages of this treatment option is its cost-effectiveness. Intralesional betamethasone injections are relatively inexpensive compared to some other treatments available for vitiligo. This accessibility could make a substantial difference for patients seeking effective solutions without breaking the bank.
As dermatologists and researchers continue to explore innovative approaches to managing skin conditions like vitiligo, the findings of this study offer hope and a potential breakthrough for individuals dealing with scalp vitiligo. Intralesional betamethasone injections present a non-invasive, safe, and cost-effective option that could make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by this challenging condition.

Reference:
Wang, T., Zhao, P., Shi, X., Zhang, J., Ren, Y., & Luo, G. (2023). Efficacy of intralesional corticosteroid injections for scalp vitiligo: An effective therapeutic option. The Journal of Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1111/1346-8138.16911