Outpatient phototherapy for psoriasis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Photomedicine

Background:

• Psoriasis vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
• Current phototherapy protocols often involve frequent treatments and potential side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel ultraviolet (UV)-B phototherapy protocol for psoriasis vulgaris.
• To compare the efficacy and safety of a less frequent treatment schedule.

Main Methods:

• Twenty patients with psoriasis vulgaris received UV-B phototherapy three times weekly with varied exposure increments.
• White petrolatum was the only topical agent used.
• Treatment outcomes were compared to a schedule of five weekly treatments with fixed increments.

Main Results:

• Complete disease clearance was achieved in 18 of 20 patients (90%).
• One patient showed substantial improvement, and one did not respond.
• Treatments ranged from 10 to 38 sessions over 3–13 weeks.
• Fewer UV-radiation burns were noted compared to more frequent schedules.

Conclusions:

• A less frequent (three times weekly) UV-B phototherapy regimen with varied exposure increments can be highly effective for psoriasis vulgaris.
• This protocol may reduce side effects and hospitalization needs.
• Long-term efficacy and maintenance requirements warrant further investigation.