Autologous Serum and Non-Cultured Epidermal Cell Suspension for Stable Vitiligo: A 30-Patient Case Series.

BACKGROUND

Stable vitiligo, characterized by irreversible melanocyte loss, often resists conventional therapies. Non-cultured epidermal cell suspension (NCES) transplantation are increasingly used, and adjunctive autologous serum may enhance efficacy via growth factor-mediated cell survival and proliferation. This study evaluates the clinical outcomes of combined autologous serum and NCES therapy for stable vitiligo.

METHODS

This prospective case series enrolled 30 patients (61 sites) with stable vitiligo at the Guangzhou New Centre Institute of Vitiligo (2024-2025). Patients received autologous serum followed by NCES transplantation. Repigmentation was assessed using the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) and color matching. Adverse events were monitored.

RESULTS

After 3 to 6 months, excellent repigmentation (> 90%) was achieved in 83.6% of treated sites (51/61), with particularly high efficacy on facial (90% efficacy in 9/10 sites) and neck regions (92.3% efficacy in 12/13 sites). The trunk, upper limbs, and hands/fingers exhibited excellent repigmentation in 80.0%, 77.8%, and 78.6% of sites, respectively. Poor repigmentation (< 25%) was observed in only one trunk site (1/61). Excellent color matching was achieved in 82.0% of treated sites (50/61), and no treatment-related adverse effects were reported.

CONCLUSION

The combination of autologous serum and NCES transplantation is highly effective and safe for stable vitiligo. Autologous serum may synergize with NCES by supporting the microenvironment for melanocyte engraftment, offering a promising strategy for stable vitiligo.