Clinical outcomes of topical bimatoprost for nonsegmental facial vitiligo: A preliminary study

Background Vitiligo is a common acquired pigmentary disorder. Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution was indicated in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma and eyebrow hypotrichosis. However, lid hyperpigmentation was reported as a complication. Objective To study the efficacy and safety of 0.01% bimatoprost solution compared with 0.1% tacrolimus ointment in patients with nonsegmental facial vitiligo. Methods Patients with more than 2 vitiliginous patches on the face were enrolled. Vitiliginous patches were randomized to receive topical 0.1% tacrolimus ointment or 0.01% bimatoprost ophthalmic solution, applied twice daily for 12 weeks. The vitiligo surface area (VSA, cm(2)) was calculated, and the percentage of repigmentation was assessed. Results Ten patients completed the study. At the baseline, the mean VSA was comparable between the two groups. By week 12, the VSA decreased at a statistically significant level among both groups compared to the baseline (P < .05). However, there was not a statistically significant difference between both groups. In terms of repigmentation at week 12, 20% of the patients in the bimatoprost group and 10% in the tacrolimus group achieved >50% repigmentation; the overall grading score between two groups were not different at a statistically significant level. The side effects of bimatoprost were reported as itching and burning. There were no changes in intraocular pressure in 2 patients who had lid involvement. Conclusion Topical bimatoprost solutions were safe and effective for the treatment of nonsegmental facial vitiligo with comparable results to tacrolimus ointment. It can be considered as an alternative treatment for facial vitiligo.