An observational study to assess utility of dermoscopy as a clinical response predictor in non-segmental vitiligo treated with narrow band ultraviolet B phototherapy, SMS medical college, Jaipur

Vitiligo is a common skin disorder characterized by loss of pigmentation, which can significantly affect the quality of life of patients. Narrow band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy is a standard and widely used treatment for non-segmental vitiligo. However, the degree of clinical improvement varies among patients, and there is a need to identify early predictors of response to guide management.

Dermoscopy is a non-invasive tool that allows detailed visualization of skin structures not visible to the naked eye. Certain dermoscopic features may provide valuable information about disease activity and potential for repigmentation.

The present study is a prospective observational study being conducted in the Department of Dermatology, SMS Medical College, Jaipur. Patients with non-segmental vitiligo who are scheduled to undergo NB-UVB phototherapy and meet inclusion criteria will be enrolled after providing informed consent. Baseline dermoscopic findings of selected vitiligo patches (acral and non-acral sites whenever feasible) will be recorded. Patients will then undergo NB-UVB phototherapy for 12 weeks. Changes in vitiligo lesions will be assessed clinically using the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI), and correlated with baseline dermoscopic findings to evaluate their predictive value.

The primary outcome is to determine whether specific dermoscopic features can serve as predictors of clinical improvement in vitiligo patients receiving NB-UVB therapy. This may help in better counseling, early identification of likely responders, and optimizing treatment decisions in vitiligo management.