Abstract
Narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) phototherapy and psoralen-UVA (PUVA) photochemotherapy are widely used phototherapeutic modalities for a range of skin diseases. The main indication for NB-UVB and PUVA therapies is psoriasis, and other key diagnoses include atopic eczema, vitiligo, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), and the photodermatoses. The decision on choice of phototherapy is important and NB-UVB is usually the primary choice. NB-UVB phototherapy is a safe and effective therapy which is usually considered when topical agents have failed. PUVA requires prior psoralen sensitization but remains a highly effective mainstay therapy, often used when NB-UVB fails, there is rapid relapse following NB-UVB or in specific indications, such as pustular or erythrodermic psoriasis. This review will provide a perspective on the main indications for use of NB-UVB and PUVA therapies and provide comparative information on these important dermatological treatments.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 184 |
| Pages (from-to) | 1-8 |
| Number of pages | 8 |
| Journal | Frontiers in Medicine |
| Volume | 5 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2 Jul 2018 |
Keywords
- UVB
- PUVA therapy
- phototherapy
- skin diseases
- psoriasis
- ecsema
- vitiligo