A comparative study of narrowband-ultraviolet B plus intralesional normal saline versus narrowband-ultraviolet B with platelet rich plasma in treatment of vitiligo

Background: Treatment of vitiligo remains a challenge and there is no universal consensus about optimal treatment. Platelet rich plasma contains several growth factors and is being used as an effective treatment of several dermatological disorders. Now it is clear that along with melanocytes, keratinocytes and fibroblasts are also involved in pathogenesis of vitiligo. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of narrowband-ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) with platelet rich plasma versus NB-UVB and intralesional normal saline in treatment of vitiligo. Methods: A prospective observational study was done between March 2016 to August 2017 on patients of vitiligo attending BRD Medical College, Gorakhpur. A total of 80 patients were enrolled with symmetrical lesions. For each patient one side was treated with NB-UVB along with intralesional platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and other side with NB- UVB plus intralesional normal saline was given. Intralesional PRP and intralesional normal saline was given on an interval of every 2 weeks for 4 months and patients were receiving NB-UVB therapy thrice weekly on alternate day. Results: We found that combination of PRP with NB UVB had statistically significant improvement as compared to NB UVB alone with pigmentation detected in 60% patient in combined site versus 20% in NB UVB plus intralesional normal saline. Conclusions: Intradermal PRP injections along with NB-UVB are efficacious, safe, cheap and easy technique in treatment of vitiligo it is more efficacious when compared to NB-UVB therapy. It also shortens the duration of NB-UVB therapy.