The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of needling/microneedling as an adjunct to NB- UVB phototherapy in the treatment of stable refractory patches of acral vitiligo, based upon clinical and immunohistochemical assessment of melanocyte count and distribution in response to needling/ microneedling. Twenty patients with stable acral vitiligo (!2 patches) were enrolled. One of the two index patches was randomized to receive needling or microneedling in conjunction with NB- UVB. Patients received phototherapy sessions 3 times weekly, while needling was carried out on biweekly basis for 6 months. Assessment was done clinically using point counting method, VESTA, and global patients’ satisfaction, and immunohistochemically by quantitative assessment of melanocyte count by Melan-A. No statistically significant difference was observed between NB-UVB monotherapy and either of the combined therapy regimens as regards the mean percentage change in vitiligo surface area (p1⁄4.451), mean change in absolute melanocyte count from baseline (p1⁄4.589), and mean VESTA (p1⁄4.916). Patches subjected to adjuvant microneedling/needling were afflicted by koebnerization in 50% and 20% of cases, respectively. In conclusion, neither microneedling nor needling appear to confer an added therapeutic value to NB- UVB phototherapy in the treatment of stable acral vitiligo. Moreover, both carry the risk of koebnerization.

LB065 - Evaluation of needling/microneedling as an adjunct to phototherapy in the treatment of stable acral vitiligo: a comparative clinical and immunohistochemical study

The scientific meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR) is held yearly, usually in September. With an international attendance of more than 1000 skin scientists from around the globe, the four-day event includes short oral presentations from peer-reviewed abstracts, keynote lectures from international experts, sponsored symposia, satellite programs, educational events as well as an important focus on posters, networking and building collaborations amongst scientists. For more information about this year’s meeting visit our website.