Successful Homoeopathic Management of Childhood Vitiligo Involving the Eyelids and Lips: A Case Report at Dr Batra's

Abstract

Vitiligo is a chronic acquired pigmentary disorder characterized by selective destruction of melanocytes, resulting in well-demarcated depigmented macules. Childhood vitiligo accounts for nearly one-third of all vitiligo cases and often carries considerable psychosocial implications for both the child and parents. Facial involvement, particularly of the eyelids and lips, is cosmetically distressing and frequently prompts early medical consultation. Although conventional therapies may induce repigmentation, prolonged treatment and recurrence remain significant challenges.

This case report describes a child who presented with progressive hypopigmented lesions involving both upper eyelids and lips of six months' duration. The lesions increased following topical allopathic treatment. Wood's lamp examination demonstrated bright white fluorescence with complete depigmentation of the eyelids and subclinical lesions over both thumbs. Constitutional case analysis revealed a cheerful, affectionate, well-behaved, mildly shy, pampered child with marked attachment to her parents, especially her mother, corresponding closely with the constitutional remedy Pulsatilla. Arsenicum sulphuratum flavum was prescribed during the active stage, while Tuberculinum was administered as an intercurrent anti-miasmatic remedy.

During a follow-up period of more than two years, no new lesions developed. Progressive perifollicular repigmentation (trichrome pigmentation) was documented under Wood's lamp examination, with complete recovery of both upper eyelids and substantial improvement of the lip lesions. This case highlights the potential role of individualized homoeopathic treatment in achieving disease stabilization and sustained repigmentation in childhood vitiligo.