Modified Technique of Cultured Epithelial Cells Transplantation on Facial Segmental Vitiligo

Background: Cultured epithelial cells transplantation is a known surgical technique for vitiligo. Objective: To evaluate the factors influencing efficacy and safety of cultured epithelial cells transplantation in 9-month follow-up. Methods: Demographic, clinical, and repigmentation outcomes were reviewed for patients with facial segmental vitiligo who had undergone cultured epithelial cells transplantation from November 2013 to July 2015 at the clinic of the Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, China. Results: Twenty-eight patients who had undergone cultured epithelial cells transplantation were included. A satisfactory result (>50% repigmentation) was achieved in 79% patients with facial segmental vitiligo in 9 months. The treatment effect was significantly different in 6th month (P = 0.032), 9th month (P = 0.006) compared with 3rd month. Disease stability did significantly affect repigmentation outcome in 9th month (Z = 2.113, P = 0.035). No significant difference was observed between single segmental type versus mixed type (Z = 1.081, P = 0.280). Adverse effects were nearly absent. Conclusion: Cultured epithelial cells transplantation is a relatively safe and effective therapy for facial segmental stable vitiligo patients.