2.2. RCM Imaging

RCM images were captured with Vivascope 1500^®; MAVIG GmbH, Munich, Germany. RCM instrumental and acquisition methods were previously described elsewhere [13]. To ensure the capture of RCM images in precisely the same location throughout the study period, an area was designated on a piece of transparent paper for each patient. Briefly, for each macule, a complete set of ≥3 Viva-Block mosaics (epidermal layers, the dermo-epidermal junction [DEJ], and the upper dermis) was captured. RCM features of interest were predefined, according to those identified by Ciardo et al., as both diagnostic and ideal for skin response: the presence/absence of (i) blood vessels, (ii) dendritic cells, and the quantity of (i) an irregular honeycombed pattern and (ii) pigmented papillae [25]. Follow-up/post-treatment investigations were performed via telephone with the patients at 10 and 12 months from treatment initiation.