A study on efficacy of Fractional CO2 Laser with Latanoprost VS Fractional CO2 Laser With Topical Tofacitinib in stable vitiligo-A RCT

Author : Bommaka Sruthi

Abstract : Introduction: Vitiligo is an acquired depigmenting disorder resulting from autoimmune melanocyte destruction. Fractional CO₂ laser has emerged as a promising adjunctive therapy by enhancing trans-epidermal drug delivery and stimulating perifollicular melanocyte activity. Topical agents such as Latanoprost, a prostaglandin F2α analogue, and Tofacitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, have shown results as repigmentation therapies. Aim & Objectives: To compare efficacy and safety of fractional CO₂ laser + topical Latanoprost 0.005% versus fractional CO₂ laser + topical Tofacitinib 2% gel in stable vitiligo. Materials & Methods: In this randomized interventional study, 58 patients with stable vitiligo were randomized into two equal groups (n=29). Treatment comprised fractional CO₂ laser sessions every 2 weeks. Immediately post-laser, topical agent was applied and patients continued once-daily topical application at home until the next visit. A total of four laser sessions (weeks 0, 2, 4, 6) were planned with clinical assessment at each visit; final on-treatment assessment occurred at 10 weeks. Outcome measures were MISP (Mean Improvement in Score by Physician) and Global Photographic Assessment (GPA). Adverse events were recorded at each visit. 26 patients in Group A and 27 in Group B completed the protocol. Results: Tofacitinib group demonstrated faster and greater extent of repigmentation with higher rates of moderate-to-marked improvement by 8th week. Latanoprost group showed predominantly mild-to-moderate improvement. Common transient adverse effects (erythema, edema, burning, post-inflammatory pigmentation) were laser-related and self-limiting. Conclusion: Both combinations were safe and effective; Fractional CO₂ laser with topical Tofacitinib produced earlier and superior repigmentation.

Keywords : Fractional CO₂ Laser Combined with Topical Tofacitinib vs Latanoprost in Stable Vitiligo

Conference Name : International Conference on Clinical and Experimental Dermatology (ICCED - 25)

Conference Place : Mangalore, India

Conference Date : 27th Dec 2025