Uncommon responses of segmental vitiligo to melanocyte-keratinocyte transplantation procedure.

Abstract

Patients with segmental vitiligo (SV), unlike those with nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV), have a more predictable course and are more responsive to surgery. To report 10 patients with SV treated with the melanocyte-keratinocyte transplantation procedure (MKTP), who responded with unusual responses not previously reported in the literature. This is a retrospective, observational study that reports 10 patients with SV who underwent the MKTP between May 2003 and May 2012. Two patients had successful repigmentation after split-thickness skin grafting after failure of the MKTP. Two patients developed a hypopigmented ring at a margin of the MKTP-treated area. One patient had complete repigmentation after a second MKTP. Two patients developed koebnerization of the recipient site. Three patients developed new vitiligo patches in previously unaffected areas after the MKTP. Uncommon and even suboptimal responses can occur following the MKTP in SV patients. There is a need for studies to provide better understanding and outcomes for SV patients undergoing the MKTP.