Evaluation of Serum Vitamin D Levels in Patients with Vitiligo Undergoing NBUVB (Narrowband UV-B) Therapy

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D increases the contents of tyrosinase in cultured human melanocytes, which raises its possible role in modulating melanogenesis. Objectives: In this study, the level of 25 (OH) D was measured before and after NBUVB therapy and its relationship with outcome of NBUVB therapy in patients with vitiligo was also assessed. Methods: This study was conducted on 30 patients with generalized vitiligo (less than 30% body surface) and 30 healthy individuals without age and gender limitations. The patients received NBUVB therapy 2 times a week for 15 weeks. We measured the serum vitamin D level and involvement area (VASI score, vitiligo area, and severity index) at baseline and 30 sessions post treatment. Results: The level of vitamin D increased significantly compared to baseline measurements. Vitamin D level changes were not significantly associated with clinical outcome in which VASI score decreased. Conclusions: Vitamin D did not improve clinical outcomes. Thus, we suggest that further studies be conducted to understand the mechanisms of pigmentation due to NBUVB therapy in vitiligo.