Minimally Invasive Removal of Leukotrichia and Hair Transplantation: A 2-Step Surgery in the Treatment of Stable Follicular Vitiligo.

Background: Follicular vitiligo is a distinct subtype of vitiligo characterized by the selective destruction of the follicular melanocytic reservoir. Treatment of follicular vitiligo-associated leukotrichia has always been a clinical challenge.

Methods: Twenty participants (mean age, 29 years) with stable follicular vitiligo were recruited between 2020 and 2021 for 2-stage surgery. In stage 1, an incision around the vitiligo lesion was performed to subcutaneously dissect and scrape the leukotrichia. In stage 2, healthy follicles obtained from the occipital donor site were transplanted into the vitiligo area. Follow-up examinations were conducted for 1 year postoperatively using a camera and dermatoscope to observe the growth rate, color, and surviving number of the transplanted hairs. Patient satisfaction was recorded to evaluate the potential surgical improvement.

Results: The transplanted hair grew with natural texture, as expected. The average survival rate of the transplanted hair follicles was 93.8%. No recurrence of leukotrichia was observed in the recipient area. No complications were observed, and the postoperative scars in the recipient area were entirely covered by black hair. All patients were satisfied with their resulting appearance.

Conclusion: Minimally invasive removal of leukotrichia combined with hair transplantation might be an appropriate surgical option for stable follicular vitiligo to create natural and stable pigmented hair.

Clinical question/level of evidence: Therapeutic, IV.