UVA1 laser in the treatment of vitiligo

Objective: The purpose of this article was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of a monochromatic 355 nm ultraviolet (UVA) laser in the treatment of vitiligo. Background data: Broadband and narrow-band UV phototherapy has been proposed as an effective therapeutic option in vitiligo patients. Methods: Seventeen consecutive, unselected patients (7 men and 10 women) were enrolled in an open-label, prospective study and treated twice weekly for 8 weeks at a fixed dose of 80-140 J/cm(2). Follow-up was 12 weeks. Results: Clinical repigmentation was observed in 15/17 patients (88.23%), with limited side effects (mild post-treatment erythema and itching). Results were maintained during the 12 week phototherapy-free follow-up period. Conclusions: the present report suggests that UVA1 laser could be an applicable therapeutic option in patients with vitiligo