Determination of optimal topical photochemotherapy for vitiligo.

Abstract

The efficacy of topical 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) in varying concentrations and vehicles was assessed in 73 vitiligo patients. The response rates in different anatomic sites were also assessed. Seven patients (9%) had 100% repigmentation; 26 (36%) had 50% or greater repigmentation, 29 (40%) had some degree of pigment return, but less than 50%; 11 (15%) had no repigmentation. Results suggest that neither concentration of drug nor vehicle is a crucial factor for inducing repigmentation of vitiliginous patches on the face, trunk, and extremities. Low-dose 8-MOP (0.1%) was as effective as high dose 8-MOP (0.5%, 1%), while causing fewer side effects. However, when treating recalcitrant areas (distal extremities), 1% 8-MOP may be the most efficacious preparation for topical photochemotherapy. A phototoxic response preceded repigmentation in all cases. The following responses were obtained for the various anatomic sites treated: 56% of facial lesions; 35% of trunk areas; 36% of the extremities, and 13% of the recalcitrant areas had greater than 50% repigmentation.

• Authors: P E Grimes, H R Minus, S G Chakrabarti, J Enterline, R Halder, J E Gough, J A Kenney Jr
• Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (J Am Acad Dermatol) Vol. 7 Issue 6 Pg. 771-8 (Dec 1982) ISSN: 0190-9622 [Print] United States
• PMID: 7174915 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• Methoxsalen

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Adolescent
• Adult
• Aged
• Child
• Child, Preschool
• Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Methoxsalen (administration & dosage)
• Middle Aged
• PUVA Therapy
• Photochemotherapy
• Vitiligo (drug therapy)