ViPC Monthly Pigment Meeting Recap

Since its establishment, the Vitiligo & Pigmentary Research Center (ViPC) has been committed to advancing education in pigmentary disorders. Our monthly pigment-focused journal and case discussion sessions at Linkou Main Branch provide a platform for dermatologists—especially trainees and those with a special interest in vitiligo and hypopigmentation—to deepen clinical understanding and stay updated with the latest advances.

This month’s meeting centered on the clinical evaluation of hypopigmented disorders, integrating dermatopathology insights, laser-induced pigment changes, and phototherapy principles.

📘Book Review Session
Presenter: Dr. Chien-Cheng Lai
Moderator: Dr. Chau Yee Ng
Topic: Dermatopathology Clues in Pigmentary Disorders
This session highlighted histopathological patterns in pigmentary disorders, emphasizing how variations in melanocyte distribution and melanin deposition serve as diagnostic clues. The discussion included key features for differentiating vitiligo, postinflammatory hypopigmentation, and other forms of leukoderma.

📄 Case Report Review
Presenter: Dr. Hao-Kai Chuang
Moderator: Dr. Chau Yee Ng
Topic: Mechanistic Insights into Laser-Induced Punctate Leukoderma
Three case reports on punctate leukoderma following low-fluence 1,064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment for melasma were reviewed. The discussion focused on whether the resulting hypopigmentation was melanopenic (loss of pigment) or melanocytopenic (loss of melanocytes), and addressed the implications for treatment outcomes and prognosis.

💡 Expert Talk : Excimer Light/Laser: Principles and Clinical Challenges
Speaker: A/Prof. Chau Yee Ng
Dr. Ng shared practical insights into the use of excimer light and laser therapy for vitiligo, including parameter settings, real-world case applications, and treatment pitfalls. The session emphasized optimizing therapeutic response and patient satisfaction in pigment restoration therapies.

 

At ViPC, we aim to bridge clinical practice, research, and teaching—making pigmentary medicine more accessible, evidence-based, and collaborative. We welcome all passionate dermatologists to join our educational journey.