Background: Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) has a defined in vivo morphology of vitiligo and re-pigmentation. Combination therapies seem more effective than monotherapies.
Objective: We aim to describe the clinical and RCM features of re-pigmentation with combined narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) and piperine-based topical treatment in localized vitiligo.
Methods: Eight patients enrolled at a single center received combined treatment: topical treatment was applied twice daily + NB-UVB twice weekly for 2 × 2-month periods. Clinical changes were analyzed by the Vitiligo Noticeability Scale (VNS) and percentage of re-pigmentation. The evaluator agreement was assessed. Predefined RCM features had the presence/absence of (i) blood vessels, (ii) dendritic cells, and the quantity of (i) an irregular honeycombed pattern and (ii) non-pigmented papillae. Clinical and RCM monitoring was performed at the baseline, 2, 3, 5, and 7 months.
Results: Macules were "slightly less noticeable" with 25-50% re-pigmentation. Irregular honeycomb patterns and non-pigmented papillae were significantly less frequently observed, and in less extended areas (T1 vs. T2, p = 0.039; T0 vs. T1, p = 0.005 and T2 vs. T4, p = 0.033). Dendritic cells and blood vessels improved, with significant changes in blood vessels (T1 vs. T2, p = 0.005 and T3 vs. T4, p = 0.008).
Conclusions: RCM confirms the morphological changes induced by combined treatment for localized vitiligo.
Keywords: confocal laser microscopy; cream; piperine; topical; vitiligo.