Introduction: Vitiligo is an amelanotic disorder that can manifest as localized patches to near total body depigmentation. It is considered a cosmetic disease accompanied by extensive psychological effects. Multiple treatments have been tried but none has achieved the ideal outcome. Tacrolimus is frequently used for vitiligo treatment pertaining to its safety and negligible adverse effects. Microneedling is a newer modality of therapeutic wounding that augments drug absorption. Combination of microneedling and tacrolimus have been tried to improve the repigmentation response in vitiligo. Our objective was to assess the safety and efficacy of this combined modality. Methods: 40 patients were subjected to combination of tacrolimus 0.1% ointment and microneedling at 2 week intervals for maximum 10 sessions with a follow-up period of 6 months. Assessment was based on grading of repigmentation and clinical improvement according to vitiligo noticeability scale. Results: Excellent repigmentation was observed in 30% cases. Improvement was significantly higher in lesions present on the head and neck. Mucosal vitiligo also showed good to excellent response. No severe side effects were reported. No complications or recurrences were observed during the follow-up period. Conclusion: Combination of microneedling and tacrolimus was found to be safe and efficacious in the treatment of stable vitiligo.

Parwaaz Matharoo has completed post-graduation in M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy. At the age of 31, she has secured the position of Assistant Professor at Muzaffarnagar Medical College & Hospital and is a highly motivated and passionate dermatologist committed to providing excellent health care. She is proficient in diagnostic skills and management of various skin disorders affecting patients of all ages. She aims to perfect her abilities to deliver excellence in clinical practice and dermatological procedures. She has been awarded Prof. B.N. Banerjee gold medal for Best Original Research Paper. Her area of interests are Paediatric Dermatology, Dermatosurgery and Skin of Color.