Non- Segmental Vitiligo Treatment using Narrow Band Ultraviolet B Alone versus Topical Psoralen- Narrow Band Ultraviolet B

Background: With a frequency of 0.5–2% in the general population, vitiligo is a chronic acquired depigmentary condition that manifests as single or clusters of achromic macules and patches on various body parts. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of topical psoralen-narrow band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) treatment of non-segmental vitiligo patients in comparison with NB-UVB alone. Patients and Methods: This prospective interventional study included forty non-segmental vitiligo (NSV) patients, divided into two equal groups. Group I received only NB-UVB sessions while group II treated with topical psoralen plus NB-UVB. Vitiligo extent tensity index (VETI) was used for disease severity evaluation. All patients received three sessions weekly for sixteen weeks. The participants were recruited from the Dermatology Outpatient Clinic of Vitiligo, Ain- Shams University Hospitals. Results: Group I and II were statistically matching as regards age, sex, special habits, vitiligo family history, disease activity or duration and associated diseases. VETI scores showed highly statistically significantpost-treatment improvement in both groups. However, no statistically significant difference could be detected in those receiving NBUVB alone versus psoralen plus NBUVB. Conclusion: The combination of topical psoralen and narrow band UVB is a successful treatment option for non-segmental vitiligo that is well tolerated. Its effectiveness is comparable to narrow band UVB alone, but not better.