Efficacy of Targeted Narrowband Ultraviolet B Therapy in Vitiligo

BACKGROUND: Phototherapy is one of the most effective treatment options in vitiligo. Targeted phototherapy devices are becoming more popular as they offer a lot of advantages over the conventional whole-body phototherapy units. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The present study was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of a targeted narrowband ultraviolet B (NBUVB) device in vitiligo. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 40 patients of vitiligo were treated with a targeted NBUVB device twice-weekly for a maximum of 30 sessions or until 100% repigmentation, whichever was reached first. The extent of repigmentation achieved was assessed and adverse effects, if any, were also noted down. RESULTS: There were 31 responders (77.5%) who achieved repigmentation ranging from 50% to 100%. The onset of repigmentation was seen as early as the 3(rd) dose in some cases and by the 10(th) dose in all responders. A total of 97 lesions were treated out of which 45 lesions (46.6%) achieved 90-100% repigmentation. Lesions showing 75% and 50% repigmentation were 14 and 15 in number respectively. 23 lesions failed to show any significant repigmentation at the end of 30 doses. Best response was seen on the face and neck with 20 of the 31 lesions achieving 90-100% repigmentation in this area. Duration of vitiligo was seen to have no statistically significant impact on the repigmentation achieved. CONCLUSION: Targeted NBUVB phototherapy seems to be an effective treatment option in localized vitiligo with a rapid onset of repigmentation seen as early as 2(nd) week of treatment.