Evaluation of the Effect of Low Level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Stable Vitiligo

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.