Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis Using a Full-Body Blue Light Device (AD-Blue): Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Irradiation with visible blue light (wavelength 400-495 nm) is a promising, effective, and safe new treatment option for chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Objective: We will perform a multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, 3-armed, prospective, randomized controlled trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of full-body blue light devices (wavelengths: 415 nm and 450 nm) compared with that of placebo irradiation for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Methods: We are planning to enroll a total of 150 patients at the University hospitals in Gottingen (Germany), Marburg (Germany), and Geneva (Switzerland). Results: The trial was approved by the lead ethics committee of the medical faculty of the University of Gottingen (21/11/16). Further approvals were obtained from local and federal authorities (ethics committee Marburg, Cantonal Commission for Research Ethics Geneva, Suisse Medic, and Bundesinstitut fur Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte). Conclusions: We will disseminate the results in a peer-reviewed journal.