The effect of leflunomide on B-cell lymphocytes in vitiligo

Background: Vitiligo is a long-lasting pigmentary skin disease. It is distinguished by the demise of melanocytes in the skin. It significantly affects the quality of life of patients. Its source remains unknown. B lymphocytes have a significant role in autoimmune process by producing autoantibodies. Leflunomide (LF) is an immunomodulator and a member of the disease-modifying antirheumatic family of drugs (DMARDs). Aims: Immunohistochemical expression of CD20 in lesional skin of vitiligo patients before and after leflunomide treatment. Methods: Skin biopsies were taken from 16 active vitiligo patients before and after treatment with leflunomide for immunohistochemichal examinations of CD 20. Results: No CD20+ cells in skin biopsies either before or after treatment. Conclusions: Despite the known role of B lymphocyte in vitiligo, and the role of leflunomide in halting vitiligo activity, skin biopsies of active vitiligo lesions showed no B cells (CD 20+ cells) either before or after treatment with leflunomide. Keywords: Vitiligo; leflunomide; B-lymphocyte; skin biopsy; CD20.