Narrow band UVB monotherapy versus topical calcipotriol ointment combined with narrow band UVB phototherapy for treatment of psoriasis vulgaris

Abstract

Introduction: Calcipotriol and narrow-band ultraviolet B (NBUVB) phototherapy are widely used to effectively treat psoriasis. To reduce the cumulative NBUVB doses and to enhance clearance of psoriatic plaques, combination therapies have been established. Objectives: To compare the clinical efficacy of NBUVB alone and in combination with topical calcipotriol ointment in psoriasis. Patients and Methods: Fifty five patients with psoriasis vulgaris were included in the study. Patients were randomized into two treatment groups. Group I consisted of 30 patients who received NBUVB phototherapy as monotherapy and group II consisted of 25 patients who were treated with topical calcipotriol ointment combined with NBUVB. The treatment was continued till the patients achieved PASI-75. Results: Twenty patients, in each group, completed the study. At baseline, the mean PASI scores were 15±4 and 16.4±3 in group I and group II respectively, and at the end of treatment, the mean PASI scores were 6.5±3 in group I and 3.4±2 in group II (P=0.000). The total cumulative NBUVB dose and the number of sessions were significantly higher in group I compare to group II. Conclusion: Topical calcipotriol combined with NBUVB reduces the cumulative dose of NBUVB and improves the response of psoriasis vulgaris to phototherapy.