Evaluation of the Effect of Low Level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Stable Vitiligo
Hadeer M. Mostafa
Dermatology and Venereology Department, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
Esraa E. El Hawary
Dermatology and Venereology Department, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
Shereen F. Gheida
Dermatology and Venereology Department, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
Elham M. Kassem
Dermatology and Venereology Department, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Vitiligo is a chronic cutaneous disease characterized by hypo- or depigmented patches that leave psychological impact on the patients. New treatment modalities have been developed to shorten the duration of treatment of vitiligo with fewer side effects.
Objective: To evaluate the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in the treatment of stable vitiligo.
Patients and Methods: The study included 20 stable vitiligo patients with overall symmetrical lesions. For each patient, one site was treated with LLLT & NB-UVB twice weekly for 3 month.
Results: There was statistically significant improvement in the re-pigmentation, 25% of patients showed excellent improvement, 40% of patients showed good improvement, 20% of patients showed moderate improvement, 10% of patients showed poor improvement and 5% of patients showed no improvement after 3 months therapy. Side effects were minimal and transient in both sides.
Conclusion: LLLT in combination with NB-UVB therapy could be considered as safe and tolerable technique for treatment of vitiligo. Longer follow up is needed.
Keywords: Low level laser therapy, NB-UVB therapy, vitiligo