Non-cultured melanocyte-keratinocyte transplantation for the treatment of vitiligo: a clinical trial in an Iranian population.

BACKGROUND

Non-cultured cellular grafting as a surgical procedure is indicated to treat stable vitiligo, refractory to medical treatment, and is gaining wider acceptance among dermatologists.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of non-cultured melanocyte-keratinocyte transplantation (MKT) for the treatment of generalized vitiligo in Iranian patients.

METHODS

In this clinical trial, a total of 14 vitiligo patches in eight patients were treated; eight patches with non-cultured MKT and six patches dermabraded alone without application of keratinocyte-melanocyte suspension. Repigmentation was compared at about 4 months post-transplantation.

RESULTS

Of the eight lesions treated with non-cultured MKT, four lesions showed 96-100% repigmentation, one lesion 65-95% and three lesions 0-25%. Of the patients who showed excellent results, only one showed a post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in recipient and control areas. Of the six control lesions, five showed failed repigmentation and one showed post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

CONCLUSION

Non-cultured MKT is an effective method to treat stable vitiligo. Studies on larger series of vitiligo patients are required to confirm its efficacy.