Intraepidermal injection of autologous non-cultured epidermal cell suspension in lesions of stable vitiligo: A novel method of repigmenting vitiligo

Abstract

Background: Transplantation of autologous non-cultured epidermal cell suspension containing melanocytes (ANEM) is one of the well-known surgical options for repigmenting stable vitiligo lesions. The recipient site for transplantation has traditionally been prepared by dermabrasion, liquid N2, or laser resurfacing, which is costly, cumbersome and has risk of scarring. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to experiment a novel method of repigmenting stable vitiligo lesions by intraepidermal injection of ANEM in the vitiligo lesions. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 stable vitiligo lesions in 50 patients were included in the study. The prepared ANEM was inoculated intraepidermally in the lesions. Patients were given PUVASOL therapy in post-operative period and followed up 4 weekly for 24 weeks to see repigmentation. Results: At 24 weeks, pigmentation was seen in 31 (62%) lesions of 50 lesions. It was excellent in 6 (12%), good in 10 (20%), satisfactory in 8 (16%), and poor in 7 (14%) patients. Adverse events were mild and insignificant. Conclusion: Intraepidermal ANEM inoculation in stable vitiligo lesions is an effective, safe, and cheap dermatosurgical procedure.