Treatment of vitiligo by 308-nm excimer laser: an evaluation of variables affecting treatment response

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To determine the true efficacy of the 308-nm excimer laser for the treatment of vitiligo, while taking into account confounding factors such as anatomic site of treatment, age, sex, skin type, MED, and duration of evolution of the vitiligo.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-five patients with vitiligo were included. Each lesion was treated twice a week by the 308-nm excimer laser for a maximum of 24 sessions. Efficacy was blindly evaluated by two independent physicians.

RESULTS

Repigmentation was noted in 46 plaques/52 (88.5%). Repigmentation rate (75%) was obtained in 14 (26.9%). In "UV sensitive" areas (face, neck, trunk), 8/14 lesions (57.1%) had a repigmentation rate, 75% versus 6/38 (15.8%) in "UV resistant" areas (bony prominences and extremities) (P = 0.031). No relationship could be established between response to the treatment and the following variables: age, sex, skin type, MED, and duration of evolution of the vitiligo (respectively, P = 1, 0.666, 0.566, 0.628, 0.521).

CONCLUSIONS

An aesthetically reasonable result is achieved essentially in "UV sensitive" areas, thus appearing to be the appropriate places of choice for this treatment.