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Ultraviolet light therapy in atopic dermatitis
Acta Dermato-Venereologica. Supplementum
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Phototherapy using Psorilux and Metec Helarium devices effectively treated atopic dermatitis in over 90% of patients. Both treatments reduced the need for topical corticosteroids, with Metec Helarium showing fewer side effects and higher patient preference.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Phototherapy
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
- Topical corticosteroids are a common treatment but can have side effects.
- Phototherapy offers an alternative or adjunctive treatment modality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of two different phototherapy devices for atopic dermatitis.
- To compare the outcomes and patient preferences between Psorilux and Metec Helarium devices.
Main Methods:
- 107 patients with atopic dermatitis treated with Psorilux (280-400 nm UVB/UVA) between 1979-1981.
- 89 patients treated with Metec Helarium (310-340 nm UVB/UVA) between 1982-1983.
- Assessed treatment effectiveness, need for topical corticosteroids, and adverse events.
Main Results:
- Psorilux: 93% good results; reduced corticosteroid need in 50%. Caused burns in 2 patients and erythema in 11.
- Metec Helarium: 94% effective; reduced corticosteroid need in 85%. Caused erythema in 14 patients, no burns.
- 14 of 17 patients preferred Metec Helarium over Psorilux.
Conclusions:
- Both Psorilux and Metec Helarium phototherapy are effective for atopic dermatitis.
- Metec Helarium demonstrated a higher reduction in corticosteroid dependence and a better safety profile.
- Patient preference favored the Metec Helarium device, suggesting improved tolerability.