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An Open-Label Non-Randomized Preliminary Noninferiority Study Comparing Home-Based Handheld Narrow-Band UVB Comb
Suvesh Singh1, Sujay Khandpur1, Vinod K Sharma1
1Department of Dermatology and Venereology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Indian Dermatology Online Journal
|July 31, 2023
Summary
A handheld narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) comb device offers comparable results to standard whole-body NB-UVB therapy for vitiligo. This home-based treatment showed better patient compliance and noninferior efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Phototherapy
- Vitiligo Treatment
Background:
- Narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) is a standard therapy for vitiligo.
- Vitiligo is a condition causing skin depigmentation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the safety and efficacy of a handheld NB-UVB comb device versus standard whole-body NB-UVB therapy.
- To evaluate treatment outcomes in localized stable vitiligo.
Main Methods:
- 31 vitiligo patients were randomized into two groups: daily home-based handheld NB-UVB (Group A) or thrice-weekly hospital-based whole-body NB-UVB (Group B) for 4 months.
- Outcomes including repigmentation, lesion size, and quality of life were assessed.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare the groups.
Main Results:
- Both therapies showed statistically significant reduction in lesion size.
- Median repigmentation was 51.35% for the handheld device and 63.85% for whole-body therapy (P=0.64), indicating noninferiority.
- Patient compliance was better with the handheld device, with fewer missed sessions.
Conclusions:
- The handheld NB-UVB comb device is noninferior to standard whole-body NB-UVB therapy for vitiligo.
- Daily use of the handheld device with a fixed fluence offers a safe and effective alternative with improved patient compliance.
