Uva Light for Relief of Uraemic Pruritus

Treatment of acquired perforating dermatosis with narrowband ultraviolet B

“…We attempted the phototherapy for the treatment of APD based on the fact that photo(chemo)therapies are effective on uremic pruritus in patients undergoing hemodialysis [8][9][10][11] and also on recalcitrant nodular prurigo. 12,13 Furthermore, an improvement of reactive perforating collagenosis was reportedly noted by some patients during summer months.…”

A Placebo-Controlled Trial of UV-A Phototherapy for the Treatment of Uraemic Pruritus

“…Several uncontrolled studies have suggested that ultraviolet radiation relieves uraemic pruritus [7][8][9].…”

“…Objective evidence, apart from clearing of secondary excoriation, is difficult to obtain, but it is interesting to note that the mast cell numbers, which are reported to be increased in chronic renal failure [11], were unchanged in a group of patients whose uraemic pruritus was relieved by UV-A treatment [9].…”

“…Antihistamines, cholestyramine, tranquillisers, intravenous heparin, intravenous lignocaine and sauna baths are amongst the therapeutic options [1][2][3][4][5] and the number of suggested treatments bears testimony to their lack of general efficacy. Several recent reports [6][7][8][9] have claimed a dramatic response to ultraviolet radiation therapy.…”

Acute Complications Associated With Hemodialysis

“…Possible explanations for the response to UVB phototherapy include inactivation of circulating substance(s) present in uremia and responsible for pruritus, a photoproduct with a long half-life may relieve pruritus without directly affecting the cause, or an effect ofthe reduction of skin phosphorus to levels comparable to those in nonpruritic uremic patients and healthy volunteers (181). Ultraviolet A (UVA) light also was reported to relieve pruritus in dialysis patients (195), but a placebo-controlled trial failed to confirm this (196).…”