In search of an optimum dose escalation for narrowband UVB phototherapy: is it time to quit 20% increments?

Boztepe, Gonca; Akinci, Hande; Sahin, Sedef; Karaduman, Aysen; Evans, Sibel Ersoy; Erkin, Gül; Atakan, Nilgün; Akan, Tülin et al. · J Am Acad Dermatol · 2006

retrospective_cohort · Level III

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Abstract

Our aim was to compare 20% with 10% to 5% incremental regimens in narrowband UVB phototherapy. The study included patients with psoriasis (N = 191) with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes II and III. Occurrence of erythema as well as maximum and cumulative doses were higher with 20% escalations, whereas response rates and time to response did not significantly differ. The study was limited by its retrospective nature. A 5% or 10% incremental regimen may have similar therapeutic efficacy.

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