TLDR Melanocyte transplantation can safely restore skin color, especially in stable vitiligo, but must be chosen carefully based on the disease phase.
Melanocyte transplantation aims to restore pigmentation in achromic areas of the skin by transferring melanocytes from a pigmented donor site. The three developed methods include skin transplants, basal cell layer suspension, and hair follicle melanocytes, along with autologous cultured melanocytes. While these techniques are generally safe with rare complications, they are often used in conjunction with medical treatments such as corticosteroids or phototherapy, particularly for treating stable vitiligo macules. It is crucial to differentiate between the active and stable phases of vitiligo to choose the most effective treatment approach.
177 citations,
November 2002 in “British journal of dermatology/British journal of dermatology, Supplement” Transplantation is effective for stable leucoderma but not for progressive, widespread vitiligo vulgaris.
March 2018 in “John Wiley & Sons, Ltd eBooks” Surgical therapies for vitiligo vary in effectiveness, with combination therapy and medical tattooing recommended for better results.
January 2019 in “Springer eBooks” Transplanting skin cells is a safe, effective, and affordable treatment for vitiligo.
60 citations,
April 2006 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Surgical methods like suction blister grafting and split-thickness skin grafting are highly successful for vitiligo repigmentation, but choosing the right patients is crucial for success.
281 citations,
January 2013 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Manage vitiligo with treatments, address emotions, and use camouflage techniques.
21 citations,
February 2017 in “Dermatologic surgery” Different techniques for vitiligo treatment work similarly well, with some better for specific body areas.
