Hypomelanosis of Ito: Treatment, Cost and Side Effects

Hypomelanosis of Ito treatment is required when a person is suffering from a rare condition where the skin distinctively changes in the areas of the skin which lack color. Patches or streaks may start appearing in these areas. This condition is usually associated with other problems like scoliosis and neurological problems like seizures and other developmental delays. This condition is often called the neurocutaneous syndrome due to its association with other neurological and skin problems. In many other cases, hypomelanosis of Ito is caused due to some genetic irregularities present in cells of specific areas.

Normally the symptoms of HMI starts appearing in a child by the time he/she turns two years old. A thorough family medical history and physical exam is required to identify the problem. Your physician may ask you about any previous history of seizures or developmental delays and intellectual disabilities. Checking for any distinctive skin problems, hair problems, slow growth and other vision problems is also required before starting any treatment for the condition. After carrying out the required physical exams to identify the problem, a number of other imaging tests like CT scan, MRI, EEG and EMG are also performed. These tests help in understanding whether there is a decreased muscle tone or not. Neurological exams and genetic testing may also be needed before starting the treatment.

Hypomelanosis of Ito does not have any treatment as such. However, there are different methods of managing the symptoms and preventing the problem from increasing and getting complicated. No treatments are available for the pigmentation of the skin. But using makeup as an alternative to cover up the spots is often helped patients. The nature and level of intellectual and developmental disabilities determine how independent a person can become on reaching adulthood. In case of others who show more signs of developmental disabilities, a lifelong support and residential care may be required.

Patients may also benefit from behavioral therapies which help them improve their social and communicational skills. This can help them learn different abilities and adapt different behaviors as well. Starting these therapies at early age is observed to be very helpful for the patients. Drug therapy may also be used for patients if the physician sees the requirement. Drug therapy is normally used to control the seizures which are seen in HI related epilepsy. Proper dental and eye care is to be given to patients suffering from this condition. Other therapies like occupational therapy and Speech language therapy can also prove to be helpful and is often seen to make a significant improvement in the child’s health. Doctor’s often suggest that the treatment should start from an early age in order to ensure the best outcome.

If you notice a change in the color of your child’s skin where most of the areas lack skin color then your child may be eligible for the treatment. You need to look out for symptoms like patches, streaks and spiral shaped areas on the skin. Skin lesions may also appear in children who may be suffering from this condition. Your child may be having developmental disabilities as well.

Individuals who do not see any changes in the skin color and do not show symptoms of other problems of developmental disabilities are not eligible for the treatment.

In cases where anticonvulsants are needed patients may see some side effects like tremors, dizziness, weight gain, rash, fatigue, drowsiness among other problems. However, other treatments for scoliosis may be needed for patients who are suffering from this condition as well. Scoliosis braces also have their side effects like depressed mood and increased stress. You may have low self esteem and limitations is physical activity may also be noticed.

Since there is no definite treatment for the condition, patients are helped through a number of therapies like speech language therapy and occupation therapy for several years. This may show an improvement in the child’s life and help him/her have a positive attitude

Patients need to continue their treatment for as long as required in order to lead a longer and happier life. However, Hypomelanosis of Ito cannot be cured as it is considered to be a genetic condition.

Using drugs like anticonvulsants may cost around Rs 2,000 to 4,000. The patient may need treatments for other problems like scoliosis which may cost you around Rs 5-7 lakhs depending on the medical facility.

Since the problem is a genetic condition, there is no permanent cure to the problem. However, measures can be taken to regulate the problem and prevent it from getting more complicated.

Patients can be taught different communication skills and exercises to lead an easier life with the condition. Behavioral, occupational and speech language therapies are also helpful as mentioned earlier.