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Targeted UV-B phototherapy for plaque-type psoriasis
Pravit Asawanonda1, Akkrawat Chingchai, Pawinee Torranin
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Rama 4 Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. pravit@adsl.loxinfo.com
Archives of Dermatology
|December 21, 2005
Summary
Targeted UV-B phototherapy effectively treats localized psoriasis with minimal side effects. Higher doses (6 multiples of minimal erythema doses) achieved lesion clearance in 77% of patients within approximately 5-6 treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Phototherapy
- Psoriasis Treatment
Background:
- Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
- Localized plaque-type psoriasis presents a treatment challenge.
- UV-B phototherapy is a recognized treatment for psoriasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of targeted UV-B phototherapy for localized psoriasis.
- To investigate a potential dose-response relationship in UV-B treatment for psoriasis.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, evaluator-blind, controlled study was conducted.
- Fourteen patients with localized plaque-type psoriasis received targeted UV-B phototherapy.
- Treatments were administered 3 times weekly for 4 weeks, with varying fluences based on minimal erythema doses (MEDs).
Main Results:
- All tested UV-B fluences demonstrated clinical improvement and were well-tolerated.
- A dose-response relationship was observed, with 6 MEDs achieving clearance in 77% of patients.
- Adverse events were limited to mild erythema and hyperpigmentation.
Conclusions:
- Targeted UV-B phototherapy is a safe and effective treatment for localized psoriasis.
- The study supports a dose-dependent efficacy of UV-B in psoriasis treatment.
- Further research into UV-B's utility for other skin conditions is warranted.