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Narrow-band UVB for the treatment of generalized vitiligo in children

A J Kanwar1, S Dogra

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India. ajkanwar@sify.com

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
|June 15, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Narrow-band ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy is effective for childhood vitiligo, offering significant repigmentation in 75% of patients within a year. This treatment is well-tolerated, with mild, temporary side effects, making it a viable option for pediatric cases.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Phototherapy
  • Pediatric Medicine

Background:

  • Vitiligo commonly affects children, with onset often before age 20.
  • Existing treatments for pediatric vitiligo have limited efficacy and poor response rates.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the effectiveness and safety of narrow-band UVB therapy for generalized vitiligo in children.
  • To determine the treatment duration and response rates for pediatric vitiligo patients.

Main Methods:

  • Twenty-six children (ages 5-14) with generalized vitiligo (≥5% skin depigmentation) received narrow-band UVB therapy three times weekly for up to one year.
  • Repigmentation levels (marked, moderate, mild, none) were evaluated after one year of treatment.

Main Results:

  • Fifteen out of 20 (75%) patients who completed the study achieved marked to complete repigmentation.
  • Four patients (20%) showed moderate repigmentation, and one (5%) showed mild repigmentation.
  • An average of 34 treatment visits were needed for 50% repigmentation; adverse events were mild and transient.

Conclusions:

  • Narrow-band UVB therapy is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for generalized vitiligo in children.
  • The study supports the use of narrow-band UVB as a valuable therapeutic option for pediatric vitiligo.
  • Further research may explore long-term efficacy and optimal treatment protocols.

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