Comparative Study of the Therapeutic Effects of Topical Mometasone Furoate 0.1% Plus Tretinoin 0.05% and Topical Mometasone Furoate 0.1% Plus Eucerin in the Treatment of Vitiligo

Abstract

Background: Long-term treatments with topical corticosteroids, for diseases like vitiligo, are associated with the risk of skin atrophy. Objectives: Recent studies suggest that administration of topical tretinoin, with a corticosteroid, diminishes skin atrophy without impacting the steroid’s anti-inflammatory effects. Patients and Methods: A placebo-controlled, paired-comparison, left-right study was conducted for a period of 6 months on topical tretinoin 0.05% and mometasone furoate 0.1 % with topical mometasone furoate 0.1% and eucerin in 16 patients, diagnosed with generalized vitiligo. Clinical responses and side effects were assessed after 3 and 6 months. Results: After 6 months treatment with topical mometasone furoate 0.1 % and tretinoin 0.05%, an excellent response was found in two (12.50%) patients, a moderate response in 13 (81.25%) and mild response in one (6.25%) patient. Two patients (12.5%) showed side effects. After 6 months treatment with topical mometasone furoate 0.1% and eucerin, an excellent response was observed in one (6.25%) patient, a moderate response in eight (50%), mild response in six (37.5 %), and no response in one (6.25%) of the patients. Eight (50%) patients had side effects. After 6 months treatment, the topical tretinoin 0.05% and mometasone furoate 0.1% had more efficacy than mometasone furoate 0.1% and eucerin (P = 0.02). Conclusions: Combination therapy with tretinoin plus topical corticosteroids is safe and effective and provides an alternative in the treatment of patients with vitiligo.