Narrow band UVB: is it effective and safe for paediatric psoriasis and atopic dermatitis?

Background: Phototherapy has a time-honoured place in the treatment of variety of skin diseases in adults. The use of this modality in children is limited mainly due to concerns about long-term carcinogenic potential. Only a few clinical trials have been performed on the efficacy and safety of phototherapy in children.

Objectives: To determine the efficacy and safety of NB-UVB phototherapy in children with atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis.

Methods: This is a retrospective review of the treatment outcomes of 129 children with psoriasis and AD, who were treated with NB-UVB between 1998 and 2006 at our institute.

Results: Fifty per cent of the psoriatic patients and 25% of patients with AD achieved clearance by the end of the treatment. NB-UVB phototherapy was well-tolerated, with no serious adverse effects except one doubtful case of melanoma in situ.

Conclusions: NB-UVB may be considered as a viable therapeutic option in children with psoriasis and AD. Children who are treated by phototherapy should remain under annual dermatologic observation. To determine true carcinogenic risk of UV therapy, longer follow-up is essential.