Safety and Feasibility of Compound Glycyrrhizin-Based Combination Therapy for Coexisting Facial Vitiligo and Melasma: A Real-World Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND

The coexistence of vitiligo and melasma poses a therapeutic challenge, as interventions for one condition may adversely affect the other. Compound glycyrrhizin (CG), an immunomodulatory agent widely used in vitiligo management in China, has been explored in combination treatment strategies. However, data on its use in patients concurrently affected by melasma are limited.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis included 29 adults with facial non-segmental vitiligo and coexisting melasma who received oral CG for 12 months, in combination with topical tacrolimus and phototherapy using melasma shielding. Clinical parameters were evaluated using the Facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (F-VASI) and Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI), along with standardized facial photography and serum chemokine profiling.

RESULTS

Among the 29 patients who underwent combination therapy, the mean baseline F-VASI was 0.99 ± 0.65, which decreased by 54.93% ± 19.99% over 12 months. Initial repigmentation was observed at a mean of 4.17 ± 1.26 months. Melasma severity remained largely stable throughout the treatment period (baseline MASI 16.51 ± 7.31 vs 15.97 ± 7.02 post-treatment). In parallel, serum CXCL10 and CCL20 levels showed a downward trend over time, coinciding with clinical improvement.

CONCLUSION

In this retrospective real-world cohort, facial vitiligo improved during 12 months of CG-based combination therapy without apparent worsening of coexisting melasma. The regimen was well tolerated, with no severe adverse events. Controlled studies are needed to confirm efficacy and clarify the independent role of CG.