Phototherapy for pityriasis lichenoides: our experience

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Photobiology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Pityriasis lichenoides (PL) is a benign skin condition with a spectrum from pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA) to pityriasis lichenoides chronica (PLC).
• While self-limiting, treatment is often necessary for symptom relief and cosmetic concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) and ultraviolet A/B (UVA/UVB) phototherapy for treating pityriasis lichenoides.
• To compare treatment outcomes based on disease presentation and patient characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 13 patients (11 PLC, 2 PLEVA) treated between 1998-2011.
• Patients received either PUVA or UVA/UVB phototherapy.
• Outcomes assessed included complete response, partial response, and side effects.

Main Results:

• PUVA group: 5 complete responses, 2 partial responses.
• UVA/UVB group: 2 complete responses, 2 partial responses.
• No acute side effects were reported in either group.

Conclusions:

• Both PUVA and UVA/UVB phototherapy are effective and safe treatment options for pityriasis lichenoides.
• PUVA was preferred for widespread or chronic disease, while UVA/UVB was used for recent disease or contraindications to PUVA.
• Phototherapy is a viable treatment modality for pityriasis lichenoides despite the lack of clinical guidelines.