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Dermatology (Expert Forum)
Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanosis
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center
Brookline - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Dermatology issues, such as: skin rashes, acne, birthmarks, skin infections, rosacea, and general skin care.
Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanosis
by hoosier, Nov 12, 2004 12:00AM
Hi,
I need some action answers. I had a derm look at the many pin /match head size white spots on my shins and thighs. He said don't worry it's only cosmetic, not even vitiligo. While I realize it may not be such a big deal to him.....I am the poster child for sixty year olds. I don't think I am willing to just wear slacks or heavy support hose for the next 25 years. I am Italian and have darker skin than most. So this really shows.
After hours in the library and obviously reading everything on this diagnosis on the net, I have some specific questions. Note I'm not returning to him.
1. Does protopic/elidel work on repigmenting non vitiligo spots?
2. Are you aware of any treatments that work at even partially filling in the spots? Dermabrasion? freezing ? retin a?
3. If it were your mom what would you recommend? Forget the cosmetic cover up. I need results or at least some control in trying to get rid of this.....
Thanks
Doctor's Answer
by Alan Rockoff, MD, Nov 13, 2004 12:00AM
, Nov 13, 2004 12:00AM
1. Probably not, but worth a try (especially Protopic).
2. Unfortunately, I'm not.
3. The less tan you are, the less the spots are noticeable.
I am assuming that the diagnosis you name is what you have--it does sound correct. If your previous dermatologist failed to instill confidence, by all means get another opinion. But there are cases where only cosmetic solutions are available, and I think yours may be among them.
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
2. Unfortunately, I'm not.
3. The less tan you are, the less the spots are noticeable.
I am assuming that the diagnosis you name is what you have--it does sound correct. If your previous dermatologist failed to instill confidence, by all means get another opinion. But there are cases where only cosmetic solutions are available, and I think yours may be among them.
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
Are you simply saying that there is no way to reintroduce pigmentation or stop this process? I realize this isn't the worst thing; however, it sounds hopeless.