A patient with segmental vitiligo involving the face and neck enquires about surgical treatment. Which procedure is most appropriate for stable segmental vitiligo (inactive for >1 year) with small lesion area?

• A Punch grafting
• B Split-thickness skin grafting
• C Cultured melanocyte transplantation
• D Suction blister epidermal grafting (SBEG) ✓

Explanation

Suction blister epidermal grafting (SBEG) is considered the best surgical technique for stable segmental vitiligo with localised involvement on the face and neck due to: minimal donor-site scarring, excellent colour match, high success rates (>85% repigmentation), and suitability for contoured facial areas. Punch grafting may cause cobblestone appearance. STSG is used for larger areas. Cultured melanocyte transplantation is best for large areas where traditional grafting is impractical.

Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.