Narrow-band UVB (311 nm) versus conventional broad-band UVB with and without dithranol in phototherapy for psoriasis

Abstract

Background: A narrow-band UVB lamp (Philips TL 01) emitting a peak of approximately 311 nm was developed to improve the phototherapy for psoriasis. Only a few studies have been performed with promising results.

Objective: The therapeutic efficacy of the Philips TL 01 lamp in a new 100 W version was compared with conventional broad-band lamps (Sylvania UV 6) in a controlled trial.

Methods: Twenty-three patients with psoriasis were treated with half-body exposures from the different UVB sources. The rate of clearing was monitored by estimation of the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index. All patients used emollients; excessive scaling was removed with salicylic acid in yellow petrolatum. In 13 patients dithranol in a modified Ingram regimen was added. In most cases the study was discontinued once a difference between the two sides was evident.

Results: In 20 of 23 cases the TL 01 lamp proved to be significantly more effective than the conventional source. Application of dithranol provided a substantial additional therapeutic effect. With the high-intensity TL 01/100W bulbs, exposure times were comparable to broad-band UVB phototherapy.

Conclusion: The therapeutic efficacy of Philips TL 01/100W and its practicability for psoriasis phototherapy have been demonstrated.