Keratinocyte-Melanocyte Graft Technique Followed by PUVA Therapy for Stable Vitiligo

Background: Various surgical procedures for correcting stable vitiligo exist but these have their own limitations. Autologous, non-cultured, non-trypsinized, melanocyte plus keratinocyte grafting is a new and simple method of vitiligo surgery.
Objective: The study aimed to evaluate efficacy of a new grafting technique in vitiligo patches.
Methods: Eighteen vitiligo patches underwent this procedure. The upper layer of epidermis was removed by superficial dermabrasion using a dermabrader micromotor until the epidermis appeared wet and shiny. Then, antibiotic ointment was applied and dermabrasion was continued up to the whitish area of the upper dermis. The paste-like material (ointment with entangled epidermal particles) was collected and spread over the dermabraded recipient site.
Results: Pigmentation usually started at 4-6 weeks. Complete uniform pigmentation took 16-20 weeks.
Conclusion: For smaller vitiligo patches this method gives cosmetically acceptable results. It is easy to perform and does not require specific laboratory setup.

Keywords
Melanocytes, Keratinocytes, Non-trypsinised autologous, Vitiligo surgery