A new model of epidermal culture for the surgical treatment of vitiligo.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Vitiligo can be successfully treated with grafts of autologous cultured epidermal cells.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the efficacy of autologous grafting of epidermal cells, cultured by an original method, in the treatment of localized vitiligo refractory to other therapies.

METHODS:

Autologous normally pigmented skin was used to culture keratinocytes and melanocytes on a supporting layer of biomaterial (Laserskin), which was grafted directly onto achromatic skin after de-epithelialization with liquid carbon dioxide. The percentage area of repigmentation was calculated by image analysis.

RESULTS:

Initial repigmentation of the treated areas was observed 1 month after treatment. Repigmentation continued to increase for 3 months after grafting. Follow-up at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months showed almost complete repigmentation in six out of 11 cases. In four other patients, 40-71% of the grafted achromatic area was repigmented. In one patient, repigmentation was impeded by sepsis.

CONCLUSIONS:

The method was found to be effective in the treatment of localized vitiligo refractory to other treatments. The therapeutic procedure was simple, reproducible, and easy to use.

• Authors: L Andreassi, E Pianigiani, A Andreassi, P Taddeucci, M Biagioli
• Journal: International journal of dermatology (Int J Dermatol) Vol. 37 Issue 8 Pg. 595-8 (Aug 1998) ISSN: 0011-9059 [Print] England
• PMID: 9732005 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Biocompatible Materials

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Biocompatible Materials
• Cells, Cultured
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Skin (cytology)
• Skin Transplantation
• Transplantation, Autologous
• Vitiligo (pathology, surgery)