Vitiligo
Medical Conditions
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Dermatology

Vitiligo — Treatment in Cuba

Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterized by the loss of pigment (melanin) in patches of skin, resulting in white or depigmented areas. It occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment, are destroyed. Cuba has developed a unique treatment for vitiligo called Melagenina Plus®, derived from the human placenta, which stimulates melanocyte replication and repigmentation. At La Pradera International Health Center in Havana, Cuba, our dermatology department offers comprehensive vitiligo treatment using this Cuban innovation.

Last updated: 2026-07 Reviewed by: La Pradera Dermatology Department

What Is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a non-contagious autoimmune disorder affecting approximately 1% of the world's population. It occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment (melanin), causing white patches to appear on the skin.

Non-segmental vitiligo — most common, symmetric patches on both sides

Segmental vitiligo — one side of the body, often starts earlier

Focal vitiligo — few spots in one area

Universal vitiligo — widespread, covering most of the body

Symptoms of Vitiligo

The primary symptom of vitiligo is the appearance of white patches on the skin. These patches may appear anywhere on the body and can affect the hair and mucous membranes.

White or light-colored patches on the skin

Premature whitening or graying of hair (scalp, eyelashes, beard)

Loss of color in the tissues lining the mouth and nose

Changes in or loss of color of the retina

Patches commonly appear on sun-exposed areas (hands, face, feet)

Patches around body openings (eyes, mouth, navel, genitals)

Melagenina Plus®: Cuban Innovation

Melagenina Plus® is a Cuban medication developed at the Placental Histotherapy Center in Havana. It is a placental extract that stimulates the replication of melanocytes, promoting repigmentation of vitiligo-affected skin. Combined with controlled UV light exposure, Melagenina Plus® has shown significant results in repigmentation for many vitiligo patients.

Derived from human placental extract

Stimulates melanocyte replication and melanin production

Applied topically to affected areas

Combined with controlled UV light therapy

Painless, non-invasive treatment

Developed at Havana's Placental Histotherapy Center

Treatment Protocol

The vitiligo treatment protocol at La Pradera involves daily application of Melagenina Plus® combined with controlled UV exposure sessions. The treatment is monitored by our dermatology team throughout the patient's stay.

Initial dermatological assessment and treatment planning

Daily application of Melagenina Plus® to affected areas

Controlled UV light therapy sessions

Regular monitoring of repigmentation progress

Photographic documentation of treatment results

Individualized treatment duration based on response

Patient Eligibility

Our vitiligo treatment program is designed for patients with confirmed vitiligo diagnosis who are seeking comprehensive dermatological care with Melagenina Plus®.

Confirmed vitiligo diagnosis

Dermatological assessment by our specialists

No contraindications identified during medical review

Ability to commit to the treatment duration (typically 3–4 weeks)

Willingness to follow post-treatment care instructions

Expected Results

Results vary by patient depending on the type and extent of vitiligo, duration of the condition, and individual response to treatment. Many patients see noticeable repigmentation during their treatment stay. Our dermatology team provides realistic expectations based on each patient's specific situation.

Repigmentation typically begins in sun-exposed areas

Face and neck areas often respond well

Hands and feet may be more resistant to treatment

Results are gradual and continue after the treatment stay

Post-treatment care instructions are provided for continued progress

Travel to Cuba for Vitiligo Treatment

Our international patient services team assists patients with all travel arrangements to Havana for vitiligo treatment.

Medical treatment invitation letters for visa application

Airport reception and ground transportation

Comfortable accommodation for patients

Multilingual coordinators including Arabic and Turkish speakers

Cultural and dietary accommodations including halal meals

Cost of Vitiligo Treatment in Cuba

Cuban vitiligo treatment with Melagenina Plus® is significantly more affordable than equivalent private treatment in the US or Europe — typically 60–80% less. After your consultation, our coordinators provide a detailed cost estimate covering the treatment program, UV therapy sessions, and accommodation.

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Vitiligo — Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions from international patients about treatment in Cuba.

Melagenina Plus® is a Cuban medication derived from human placental extract. It stimulates the replication of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) and promotes repigmentation of vitiligo-affected skin. It is applied topically and combined with controlled UV light therapy.

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