Comparative study between the efficacy of micro-needling combined with 5-Fluorouracil versus micro-needling with trichloroacetic acid in treatment of stable vitiligo
Keywords:
5-fluorouracil, Trichloroacetic acid , microneedling, vitiligoAbstract
Background: Vitiligo is a common de-pigmenting disorder. Despite advancements in therapy, managing the condition remains challenging. Combining treatment approaches may improve outcomes.
Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of microneedling with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) versus trichloroacetic acid (TCA) 35% in stable vitiligo.
Methods: This single-blinded study was designed as interventional and comparative. Nineteen patients (43 patches) with stable vitiligo were enrolled and randomized into two groups. One group (10 patients, 22 patches) received microneedling with 5-FU, and the other (9 patients, 21 patches) received microneedling with 35% TCA. Eight biweekly sessions were performed. Follow-up was done 2 months after the final session.
Results: No significant difference was observed in mean re-pigmentation between the two groups. Both showed a significant reduction in lesion surface area. Excellent response was seen in 9.1% (5-FU) and 9.5% (TCA), while no or poor pigmentation occurred in 72.8% and 80.9%, respectively. Lesion site (5-FU group) and skin phenotype (TCA group) showed significant associations with pigmentation. An inverse correlation existed between re-pigmentation and lesion size in both groups.
Conclusion: Microneedling with either 5-FU or TCA appears safe, practical, and affordable for treating stable vitiligo. The mean repigmentation response was comparable in both groups.
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