The efficacy and safety of targeted narrowband UVB therapy: a retrospective cohort study

Abstract

Background/aim: Phototherapy is a safe and effective treatment modality for numerous dermatological conditions. Recently, targeted phototherapy modalities have gained importance due to their advantages over conventional phototherapy. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of targeted narrowband UVB phototherapy in patients with dermatological disorders. Materials and methods: This single-center study included 173 patients who were treated with targeted narrowband UVB phototherapy. Demographic features, phototherapy parameters, and adverse effects were evaluated in all patients, and the treatment response was assessed in patients who attended at least one follow-up visit. Results: A total of 173 patients (102 females; 71 males) with vitiligo, alopecia areata, lichen simplex chronicus, palmoplantar psoriasis, and psoriasis vulgaris were included in the study. Among 73 patients, with whom the treatment was finalized by physician, an excellent response was obtained in 10%, 52.9%, 53.8%, 28.6%, and 40% of patients with vitiligo, alopecia areata, lichen simplex chronicus, palmoplantar psoriasis, and psoriasis, respectively. The treatment was generally well tolerated and was discontinued in only two patients due to adverse effects. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that targeted narrowband UVB therapy is a safe and effective treatment alternative, particularly for alopecia areata, lichen simplex chronicus, and palmoplantar and plaque-type psoriasis.

Evaluation of Long Term Prognosis in Patients Treated with Narrowband Ultraviolet B: A Retrospective Study for 8 Years

“…In a retrospective study that investigated the efficacy and safety of NB-UVB therapy in patients with vitiligo, psoriasis vulgaris, lower complete response rates were reported than the present study (6.5% in vitiligo and 8.5% in psoriasis). 8 However in that study complete remission was defined as regression of more than 90% of lesions which may be related to low treatment response.…”

UVB phototherapy in the treatment of vitiligo: State of the art and clinical perspectives

“…Recent data suggest that microfocused NB‐UVB should be considered as the first‐line treatment for localized vitiligo 24 . The main adverse effect is mild erythema 29 . Another variant of this modality is selective sunlight therapy, in which a cream that filters ultraviolet radiation to allow only NB‐UVB to reach the skin is applied on the lesions 13 …”

“…13,29 It allows quick delivery of energy in higher doses, shortening the amount of treatment sessions needed, and achieving a faster response. 29 Besides, it is useful for treating difficult areas (such as the scalp, nose, and genitals). Targeted phototherapy can be considered when <10% of body surface area is affected.…”

<p>Diagnosis, Screening and Treatment of Patients with Palmoplantar Pustulosis (PPP): A Review of Current Practices and Recommendations</p>

“…NB-UVB phototherapy resulted in moderate to marked improvement in 73.3% of 16 patients with PPP and a 61.4% reduction in a modified PPPASI. 87 However, UVA phototherapy (both paint PUVA and UVA-1) appears to be superior to UVB phototherapy. 88 A study showed 85.45% reduction in the severity index score with PUVA, compared with 61.03% with NB-UVB.…”