Efficacy of Low-Temperature Argon Plasma in the Treatment of Non-Segmental Vitiligo

Background. Vitiligo is a chronic depigmenting skin disease that significantly impacts the psychosocial well-being of patients. Current treatment methods, including long-term topical corticosteroids and laser technologies, have several limitations related to side effects and skin phototype dependence. This necessitates the development and implementation of new, safe, and effective treatments for vitiligo.

  The aim of the study was to clinically evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-temperature argon plasma in the treatment of non-segmental vitiligo and analyze predictors of treatment outcome.

  Materials and Methods. This prospective study included patients with non-segmental vitiligo (n=20). Low-temperature argon plasma treatments were performed three times weekly for 8 weeks, with a subsequent month of follow-up. Treatment efficacy was assessed using the Vitiligo Extent and Treatment Fraction (VETF) index, and quality of life was assessed using the Dermatological Quality of Life Index (DQLI). Standardized photographic documentation was used to assess the dynamics of repigmentation, the area of ​​depigmented lesions, and an analysis of prognostic factors (disease duration, lesion location, patient age).

  Results. Upon completion of therapy, all patients demonstrated positive dynamics with varying degrees of repigmentation. A statistically significant decrease in VETF scores from 8.4±3.6 to 3.6±2.4 points (p<0.001) and a decrease in DQLI from 18.6±5.4 to 7.4±2.9 points (p<0.001) were observed, indicating an improvement in the patients' quality of life. The area of ​​depigmentation decreased from 4.6±2.8% to 2.0±1.8% of the body surface area (p<0.001). The best results were achieved in patients with a disease duration of less than three years and in lesions located on the face, neck, and trunk. Follicular repigmentation was the predominant type (in 16 patients). Continued repigmentation was recorded for one month after completion of the course of treatments.

  Conclusion. The Plazmoran plasma arc installation demonstrated high clinical efficacy and a favorable safety profile in the treatment of non-segmental vitiligo. The method did not cause serious adverse events typical of traditional treatments (skin atrophy, telangiectasia) and was independent of skin phototype. These results support the use of low-temperature argon plasma in dermatological practice as a modern method for vitiligo treatment.