Efficacy and Safety of Narrow Band UVB in the Treatment of Chronic Plaque Psoriasis

Abstract

Background:  Narrow band UVB (TL-01 lamp) has been proved more successful than broad band UVB in the treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis. It is equally effective but more safe than that of psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA).

Study Design:  Interventional study.

Aims and Objectives:  To evaluate the success rate and safety of narrowband UVB in chronic plaque psoriasis in type IV skin.

Material and methods:  It is an ongoing study of 60 patients. Till date, twenty patients aged between 8-70 years have completed the study. According to the skin type IV, the starting dose was 330 mJ/ cm². All patients were exposed to whole body narrowband UVB chamber thrice a week until clearance or upto maximum of 24 sessions. Patients were assessed according to the PASI (Psoriatic Area and Severity Index) score at the baseline and then at 4^th and 8^th week of therapy.

Results:  Out of a 20 patients, those who have completed the study till date, 18 have been cleared while two cases showed a poor response. None of our patients developed any adverse effect.

Conclusion:  Narrowband UVB is a safe and effective therapy for chronic plaque psoriasis but long term follow up is needed to determine its carcinogenic effects.

Key words:  Psoriasis, narrowband UVB, PASI.