Trichloroacetic Acid in Different Concentrations: A Promising Treatment Modality for Vitiligo.

BACKGROUND

Despite the recent advances in the treatment of vitiligo, results are still largely unsatisfactory and many patients show either weak or no response to treatment. Few clinical trials have investigated the use of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to induce repigmentation in stable vitiligo.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of TCA, in different concentrations, for the treatment of stable localized vitiligo.

METHODS

The study included 100 patients with acral/nonacral stable vitiligo. Trichloroacetic acid was applied, as a monotherapy, to the vitiliginous patches at different concentrations according to the treated site every 2 weeks until complete repigmentation or for a maximum of 6 treatment sessions. Follow-up was done every month for 6 months to detect any recurrence.

RESULTS

Eyelid vitiligo showed the highest response to TCA treatment (excellent response in 80% of cases), followed by the face, trunk, and extremities. Lower response rates were noticed in the hands and feet vitiligo. Adverse effects were transient and insignificant in few patients.

CONCLUSION

Trichloroacetic acid seems to be a potential, cost-effective, well-tolerated therapeutic option for the treatment of vitiligo in the adults and pediatric populations.