Topical 5-fluorouracial (5FU) after microneedling followed by excimer light is better for treatment of nonsegmental vitiligo than excimer light alone, according to a study published in the March issue of the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Mohammad A. Saad, from the Faculty of Medicine Al-Azhar University in Assiut, Egypt, and colleagues examined the additional effect of topical 5FU after microneedling versus excimer light (308 nm) for treatment of nonsegmental vitiligo. The study included 50 patients; 33 continued the treatment for six months. In every patient undergoing treatment, two patches were selected: one with microneedling then application of 5FU and excimer (group A) and one with excimer only (group B).

The researchers found a significantly earlier response for the combination of microneedling then application of 5FU and excimer versus excimer alone. Furthermore, patches treated with the combination had a higher percentage of repigmentation, especially in the face and trunk. The combination treatment is more suitable for localized and focal vitiligo, according to the researchers.

"The results of the present work confirmed that the combined therapy is faster in inducing re-pigmentation," the authors write. "It is known that the earlier the response to treatment, the more patient satisfaction will be observed. Satisfied patients will be more [adherent] to the treatment plans and this is a very important factor in selecting treatment protocol that will enhance the trust in the treatment between the patients and physicians."

Abstract/Full Text