Phototherapy for Sclerosing Skin Conditions

• Published in: Clinics in dermatology 2016-09, Vol.34 (5), p.614-622
• Main Authors: Teske, Noelle M., MSc, Jacobe, Heidi T., MD, MSCS
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Collagen - metabolism; Collagen - radiation effects; Combined Modality Therapy; Dermatology; Graft vs Host Disease - radiotherapy; Humans; Immune System - radiation effects; Immunosuppressive Agents - therapeutic use; Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus - radiotherapy; Scleroderma, Localized - drug therapy; Scleroderma, Localized - radiotherapy; Scleroderma, Systemic - radiotherapy; Ultraviolet Rays - adverse effects; Ultraviolet Therapy - adverse effects; Ultraviolet Therapy - methods
• ISSN: 0738-081X; 1879-1131
• DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2016.05.012

Abstract Phototherapy is an effective treatment strategy for a variety of sclerosing skin conditions. There are a number of phototherapeutic modalities used for the treatment of sclerosing skin conditions, including UVA1, broadband UVA (BB UVA), psoralen plus UVA (PUVA) and narrowband UVB (NB UVB) phototherapy. As controlled trials with validated outcome measures are lacking for these therapies, existing evidence is largely level II for morphea, and even more minimal for scleroderma and other sclerosing disorders (scleroderma, lichen sclerosus, and chronic graft-vs-host disease, among others). Studies do suggest that phototherapy may be effective for many of these disorders, including those that have been unresponsive to other therapies. Phototherapy remains an attractive therapeutic option for patients due to its efficacy and favorable risk versus benefit profile. Phototherapy also offers a therapeutic alternative to systemic immunosuppressives for patients who cannot tolerate these medications.