title: Determination of optimal topical photochemotherapy for vitiligo.
abstract: The efficacy of topical 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) in varying concentrations and vehicles was assessed in 73 vitiligo patients. The response rates in different anatomic sites were also assessed. Seven patients (9%) had 100% repigmentation; 26 (36%) had 50% or greater repigmentation, 29 (40%) had some degree of pigment return, but less than 50%; 11 (15%) had no repigmentation. Results suggest that neither concentration of drug nor vehicle is a crucial factor for inducing repigmentation of vitiliginous patches on the face, trunk, and extremities. Low-dose 8-MOP (0.1%) was as effective as high dose 8-MOP (0.5%, 1%), while causing fewer side effects. However, when treating recalcitrant areas (distal extremities), 1% 8-MOP may be the most efficacious preparation for topical photochemotherapy. A phototoxic response preceded repigmentation in all cases. The following responses were obtained for the various anatomic sites treated: 56% of facial lesions; 35% of trunk areas; 36% of the extremities, and 13% of the recalcitrant areas had greater than 50% repigmentation.
mesh_terms: D000287:Administration, Topical; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008730:Methoxsalen / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011701:PUVA Therapy; D010778:Photochemotherapy; D014820:Vitiligo / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D008730:Methoxsalen