Clinical efficacy of narrow-band UVB (311 nm) combined with dithranol in psoriasis -: An open pilot study

Background: For UVB, the most effective wavelength in clearing psoriatic lesions was found to be of 313 nm. The efficacy of whole body exposure to narrow-band UVB (311 nm) combined with dithranol in psoriasis has not been evaluated to date. Objective: Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of phototherapy with narrow-band UVB (311 nm) and dithranol for psoriasis by means of whole body exposures and analysis of the mean cumulative irradiation dose. Methods: In this open pilot study, 13 patients were treated for 4-5 weeks. Evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy was performed by comparing the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores at baseline and after 4 weeks of treatment. The cumulative irradiation dose was also calculated. Results: Evaluation of the PASI scores showed a significant overall reduction of psoriatic lesions after 4 weeks of treatment. The cumulative irradiation dose was similar or lower to those found for phototherapy with narrow-band UVB alone, Discussion: In patients with widespread psoriasis, treatment with narrow-band UVB (311 nm) combined with dithranol is safe and effective, allowing reduction of the cumulative irradiation dose. Copyright (R) 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.