Comparative Outcomes of Noncultured Melanocyte Transfer with or without Platelet-rich Plasma in Stable Vitiligo

Background: Vitiligo represents an acquired pigmentary disorder characterized by asymptomatic, achromic macules and patches due to the loss of functional melanocytes. While various medical therapies exist, many patients show inadequate or partial response, likely due to the depletion of the melanocyte reservoir in lesional skin. In such cases, autologous melanocyte transplantation offers a surgical option to restore pigmentation. Objective: To study and compare the efficacy and safety of noncultured melanocyte transfer alone and suspension of noncultured melanocytes in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the treatment of vitiligo . Materials and Methods: A total of 50 patients, aged between 18 and 50 years and of both sexes, presenting with clinically stable vitiligo for at least 1 year, were included in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A underwent treatment with noncultured melanocyte transfer, whereas Group B received noncultured melanocyte transfer suspended in PRP. Treatment efficacy was monitored at 1, 3 rd , and 6 th months through both subjective and objective assessments of repigmentation, along with serial clinical photographs for visual documentation. Results: Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, and P values were calculated to determine significance. After 3 months of treatment, Group B showed 32% faster response (good to excellent response) compared to Group A. Conclusion: Both techniques are effective to produce uniform pigmentation and are suitable to cover large body surface areas with better cosmetic outcomes, but Group B showed more rapid response compared to Group A.