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Ultraviolet‐B treatment for cutaneous lichen planus: our experience with 50 patients
Author(s) -
Pavlotsky Felix,
Nathansohn Nir,
Kriger Grigory,
Shpiro Dorit,
Trau Henri
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
photodermatology, photoimmunology and photomedicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.736
H-Index - 60
eISSN - 1600-0781
pISSN - 0905-4383
DOI - 10.1111/j.1600-0781.2008.00344.x
Subject(s) - dermatology , retrospective cohort study , ultraviolet b , medicine , complete response , disease , limiting , surgery , chemotherapy , mechanical engineering , engineering
Summary Background: Previous small reports suggested the role of ultraviolet (UV)‐B in the management of cutaneous lichen planus. Objective: To summarize our experience with UVB in a relatively large study group looking specifically into predictive factors for complete response and the long‐term relapse rates. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 50 patients with generalized cutaneous lichen planus, treated by broad or narrow band UVB. Results: Seven and 43 patients were treated by broad and narrow band UVB, respectively. Complete response was achieved in 70% and 85% of those were still in remission after a median of 34.7 months. The complete response rate and the need for higher cumulative exposure doses were not influenced by sex, age, skin type, presence of additional diseases, failure of previous treatment or disease duration. Limitations: This is a retrospective non‐randomized analysis of a usually self‐limiting disease. Conclusion: UVB is a safe and efficient treatment option for generalized cutaneous lichen planus.