Excimer light versus topical methotrexate 1% hydrogel in treatment of scalp psoriasis: clinical and dermoscopic study

One of the most frequently impacted locations by psoriasis is the scalp. It is seen in about 80% of psoriasis cases worldwide, and its treatment is challenging. To compare the efficacy and safety of excimer light versus topical methotrexate (MTX) 1% hydrogel in treatment of scalp psoriasis. This randomized prospective intra-patient comparative study was carried out on 30 patients with scalp psoriasis. Lesions were divided randomly into two areas: Area A and Area B. Area A received biweekly sessions of 308-nm excimer light and Area B received topical MTX 1% hydrogel once daily for 3 consecutive months. Psoriatic Scalp Severity Index (PSSI), itching score, patient satisfaction and dermoscopic red dots and white scales were used for assessment at the baseline, at the end of treatment protocol and 1 month after the last treatment session. Both treatment modalities induced significant improvement in PSSI, itching score and dermoscopic red dots and white scales (p < 0.001 for each). The mean percentage of improvement of PSSI was 75.82 ± 33.72 in Area A and 74.19 ± 31.64 in Area B with non-significant difference between both areas (p = 0.763). Moreover, the mean percentage reduction of itching score was 77.40 ± 24.61 in Area A and 67.67 ± 34.94 in Area B with non-significant difference between both areas (p = 0.430). Additionally, a notable improvement in dermoscopic red dots and white scales was observed in 83.3% of patients in Area A and in 60% in Area B at the end of treatment protocol with non-significant difference between both areas (p = 0.518) (p = 0.436). Marked patient satisfaction was noticed in both areas with non-significant difference between both areas (p = 0.433). 308-nm excimer light and topical MTX 1% hydrogel are equally safe and effective treatment options for scalp psoriasis with minimal side effects.