Targeted NBUVB Phototherapy in Childhood Vitiligo: A Study in 35 Children

Background: Targeted UVB phototherapy currently ranks among the most effective treatment options in localized vitiligo. Purpose: The study aims to assess the efficacy of Targeted NBUVB monotherapy in childhood vitiligo involving less than 10% body surface area. Methods: Thirty-five children with vitiligo, less than 15-years of age were treated with Targeted NBUVB device twice weekly till complete resolution of the treated lesions or till maximum of 30 doses whichever occurred earlier. The extent of re-pigmentation achieved was assessed on the basis of VASI scoring system and was graded as excellent (>75% re-pigmentation), good (50-75% re-pigmentation) or poor (<50% re-pigmentation) at the end of study period. The extent of re-pigmentation achieved was also correlated with the site and duration of vitiligo. Results: Three patients dropped out of the study after receiving just 1 to 3 doses because of personal reasons. Of the remaining 32 patients there were a total of 22 responders (68.7%) who showed at least 50% repigmentation of treated lesions. A total of 114 lesions were treated out of which 61 lesions (53.5%) achieved >75% repigmentation. Among the rest, 33 lesions (28.9%) failed to show a satisfactory response to treatment while 20 lesions (17.5%) showed a good response in the form of 50-75% repigmentation. Lesions on face and neck responded the best to the treatment regimen. Conclusions: Targeted NBUVB therapy is a promising therapy in childhood vitiligo where the disease involves <10% body surface area.