Beyond Symptom Suppression: Functional Medicine as a Transformative Approach in Chronic Skin Diseases: A Transcontinental Case Series

Background: Chronic dermatological conditions such as vitiligo, psoriasis, and acne pose significant therapeutic challenges due to their multifactorial etiologies and frequent resistance to conventional treatments. The Functional Medicine (FM) model offers a systems-based, root-cause-oriented approach that integrates nutritional, immunological, and lifestyle interventions.

Objective: To document the clinical outcomes of six patients with treatment-resistant dermatological conditions—four from Bangladesh and two from the United States—managed through a personalized FM protocol.

Methods: All patients were diagnosed with vitiligo, psoriasis, or hormonal acne and had previously failed conventional therapies. A structured FM protocol was implemented, including comprehensive laboratory profiling, elimination diets, targeted nutraceuticals, lifestyle modifications, and adjunctive therapies. Outcomes were assessed using PASI, VASI, DLQI, and photographic documentation.

Results: All patients demonstrated rapid and sustained clinical improvement. Pediatric vitiligo resolved completely within three months. Psoriasis patients achieved 80–100% plaque clearance within one to eight months. The US-based acne patient showed a 90% reduction in lesions and normalization of hormonal markers. No adverse events were reported.

Conclusion: This transcontinental case series provides preliminary evidence that a root-cause Functional Medicine approach can facilitate remission in complex dermatological conditions. The consistent outcomes across diverse populations support further investigation through controlled trials.