skip to main content

Melanocyte Transplant — SCE Dermatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardDermatological SurgeryMelanocyte TransplantSCE Dermatology

A patient has segmental facial vitiligo unchanged for three years despite topical treatment and narrowband UVB. There has been no Koebner phenomenon or new lesion. Which intervention is most rational?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Offer autologous epidermal melanocyte transfer for stable treatment-resistant segmental facial vitiligo

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · E = shown as B · A = shown as C · B = shown as E

B is correct. Surgical repigmentation is considered for stable vitiligo that has not responded adequately to medical therapy, particularly localised or segmental disease. Stability matters because ongoing autoimmune activity and Koebnerisation reduce graft success and may create new depigmentation. Techniques use the patient’s own melanocytes or epidermal tissue after preparing the recipient site; allogeneic donor cells are not routine. Phototherapy may be used around surgery to support repigmentation, but indefinite escalation of ineffective treatment is not the only option.

Reference: British Association of Dermatologists guideline for vitiligo: https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.20596