A comparative study on the efficacy and safety of using Azathioprine alone, combining it with Narrow Band (UVB) and to oral minipulse Steroids plus NB-UVB in stabilizing active non-segmental vitiligo

Abstract

a long time in controlling the activity of vitiligo. alting vitiligo activity is a first step in rapidly progressive vitiligo to rescue melanocytes and achieve repigmentation. Systemic steroids are the first line therapies in most cases, however some patients cannot tolerate steroids. Other immunosuppressives have been introduced with promising results, yet studies are scarce. As compared with other cellular immunosuppressive agents, azathioprine is safer, more cost-effective and more available, and can be used without any serious side effects for The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of AZA in stabilizing disease progression of active vitiligo, compare it with its combination with NB-UVB and with OMP steroids combined with NB-UVB. This study included forty-five patients complaining of active non-segmental vitiligo divided into three groups: Group (A): 15 patients received NB-UVB (twice weekly) with OMP steroid therapy (dexamethasone 2.5 mg) as a single dose on two consecutive days repeated every week for 3 months, Group (B): 15 patients received NB-UVB (same as in group A) combined with oral AZA 50 mg twice daily for 3 months, and group (C): 15 patients received oral azathioprine alone (50 mg bid) for