Plasma Exeresis Therapy in Combination with Narrowband Ultraviolet B Phototherapy: A Novel Approach to Achieving Repigmentation in Vitiligo

Plasma Exeresis and NBUVB Phototherapy in Vitiligo

Abstract

Objective: To determine the role of plasma exeresis in causing repigmentation in patients with vitiligo.   

Methods: Six patients with vitiligo were selected on the basis of pre-determined inclusion criteria. They were undergoing NBUVB phototherapy along with topical calcineurin inhibitors application. They were subjected to 3 sessions of plasma exeresis under topical anaesthesia. They were called on follow up on a weekly basis and results were noted with the help of serial photographs and physician assessment. Patient satisfaction of the treatment was also noted. 

Results: One out of the six patients were lost to follow up. The patients VASI score for the tested patches tested showed a significant decrease. The patient satisfaction according to Likert scale was recorded at 5 for all 5 patients at the end point. 

Conclusion: Plasma exeresis therapy has proven to be a safe and effective new modality in stable vitiligo in patients with Fitzpatrick Skin types from IV to VI