Dermabrasion Versus Microneedling in Transplantation of Autologous Noncultured Melanocyte–Keratinocyte Cell Suspension in Patients With Vitiligo

Abstract

BACKGROUND Autologous noncultured melanocyte–keratinocyte transplantation is one of the procedures used to treat stable vitiligo with varying reported results. Recipient site preparation is one of the variables that could affect repigmentation outcomes. OBJECTIVE To assess the effectiveness of transplanting autologous melanocyte–keratinocyte suspension in patients with stable vitiligo and to compare recipient site preparation using dermabrasion versus microneedling. METHODS From March 2020 to September 2022, this randomized comparative study included 40 patients with 40 stable vitiligo lesions managed by suspension transplants of melanocytes. Patients were divided into 2 groups: group A, where the recipient site was prepared using dermabrasion, and group B, which was done by microneedling. The assessment was performed 3 months after the treatment based on the degree of repigmentation (excellent, ≥90%; good, 50%–89%; fair, 20%–49%; and poor response, <20%). RESULTS Both modalities resulted in effective repigmentation, but the dermabrasion group showed a statistically significant improvement and a satisfactory repigmentation rate. CONCLUSION Autologous melanocyte transplantation is a safe and effective treatment method for stable vitiligo lesions that have not responded to other therapies. When compared with microneedling, dermabrasion produced better outcomes for recipient site preparation.