High-dose 308-nm excimer laser for the treatment of psoriasis.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The excimer laser can deliver high-intensity ultraviolet B (UVB) energy at 308 nm, a wavelength similar to that used in narrow-band UVB phototherapy.

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this investigation was to evaluate the role of high-dose single treatments with the excimer 308-nm laser in stable plaque-type psoriasis.

METHODS:

Eighteen volunteers were enrolled in the study. Two plaques were selected and half of each plaque was held as a control while the other half was treated with a single dose of either 8 or 16 times the minimal erythema dose.

RESULTS:

Sixteen subjects completed the study. Two patients signed up but never actually participated because of scheduling problems. Eleven showed significant improvement within 1 month, and 5 still demonstrated persistent areas of clearing at 4 months.

CONCLUSION:

As little as one high-dose excimer laser treatment can be effective for localized plaque-type psoriasis. Multiple treatments or other irradiation schedules with this innovative device may prove even more efficacious.

• Authors: Manju Trehan, Charles R Taylor
• Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (J Am Acad Dermatol) Vol. 46 Issue 5 Pg. 732-7 (May 2002) ISSN: 0190-9622 [Print] United States
• PMID: 12004316 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Adult
• Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Laser Therapy
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Psoriasis (diagnosis, radiotherapy)
• Severity of Illness Index
• Treatment Outcome