Efficacy of monochromatic excimer light (308 nm) in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in adults and children.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To demonstrate the efficacy of light produced by a 308 nm xenon-chloride monochromatic excimer light (MEL) in the treatment of localized lesions of atopic dermatitis (AD) in adults and in children.

BACKGROUND DATA:

The 308-nm excimer light has been reported to be safe and effective in the treatment of chronic skin diseases, although the range of potential applications has not been fully explored.

METHODS:

Twelve adults and six children affected by localized lesions of AD were enrolled in this pilot study and treated with a weekly session of MEL. A range of 6-12 sessions was performed with an increasing dosage according to the patient's phototype and response. Follow-up was for 16 wk.

RESULTS:

All patients completed the protocol. At the end of treatment complete remission was observed in 12/18 patients (66.7%), a partial remission in 3/18 (16.7%) and no remission in 3/18 (16.7%). A mean total dose of 21.89 minimal erythemal dose (MED) was performed. Forty-four percent of patients maintained the results achieved at a 16-week follow-up. Treatment was well tolerated overall.

CONCLUSIONS:

MEL can be considered as a valid and safe therapeutic option for the treatment of localized AD in adults and children.

• Authors: Steven Paul Nisticò, Rosita Saraceno, Elisabetta Capriotti, Catia De Felice, Sergio Chimenti
• Journal: Photomedicine and laser surgery (Photomed Laser Surg) Vol. 26 Issue 1 Pg. 14-8 (Feb 2008) ISSN: 1549-5418 [Print] United States
• PMID: 18248156 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article)

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Aged
• Child
• Dermatitis, Atopic (pathology, radiotherapy)
• Female
• Humans
• Lasers, Excimer
• Low-Level Light Therapy
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Treatment Outcome