Efficacy of 308-Nm Excimer Laser in Treating Non-Facial Vitiligo Lesions: A Retrospective Study in Iranian Patients Publisher



Rahimnia A ; Sani SB ; Ehsani AH ; Nourmohammadpour P ; Etesami I ; Azar PRS ; Lotfi F ; Mohammadabadi MK ; Ehsani A
Source: Iranian Journal of Dermatology Published:2025

Abstract

Background: Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder characterized by depigmented patches, affecting 0.2-1.8% of the population. Effective treatments are essential due to the significant impact of the disease on patients’ quality of life. The excimer laser, which emits UVB light at 308 nm, has shown promise in treating vitiligo, however its efficacy in non-facial lesions remains underexplored. This study investigates the response of Iranian patients with extra facial vitiligo to excimer laser treatment and identifies factors influencing clinical outcomes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study involving 50 patients treated at two dermatology centers in Tehran between 2023 and 2024. All patients had stable non-segmental vitiligo affecting non-facial areas. Treatment was administered assessed using a 308-nm excimer laser (MED-UV®). Clinical photography and physician-assessed improvement scores were used to evaluate outcomes. Statistical analyses included Student’s t-test, ANOVA, and correlation coefficients. Results: Overall treatment response varies by body location, with the neck and abdomen showing the greatest improvement, while the back, elbow, and knee exhibited the least response (P < 0.001). Factors such as gender, Fitzpatrick skin type, and age did not significantly affect the outcome. The number of treatment sessions positively influenced the response in the chest and elbow, and higher laser doses were associated with greater improvement in the neck, chest, and total lesions. Conclusion: The 308-nm excimer laser is an effective treatment for non-facial vitiligo. Key factors influencing treatment efficacy include the laser dose and the number of treatment sessions, while demographic factors appear to have little impact. These insights can help optimize treatment plans for patients with vitiligo. © Iranian Journal of Dermatology.