NB-UVB Safe and Effective for Childhood Psoriasis and Vitiligo: Study Finds

Narrow-band UVB (NB-UVB) phototherapy has emerged as a safe and effective treatment option for various pediatric skin disorders, particularly chronic conditions like psoriasis and vitiligo. Given the significant physical and psychological impact of these conditions on children, exploring long-term therapeutic outcomes is essential. In this context, Dilek Menteşoğlu, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey, and colleagues analyzed a decade of clinical experience to assess the efficacy and safety of NB-UVB phototherapy in pediatric patients. By evaluating treatment responses, recurrence rates, and adverse effects, the study aimed to provide valuable insights into the role of NB-UVB as a reliable and well-tolerated option in pediatric dermatological care.

For this purpose, the researchers analyzed the phototherapy records of children under 17 who received NB-UVB treatment between January 2013 and June 2023. The study included 108 patients, 58 (53.7%) were females and 50 (46.3%) males, and an average age of 12.6.

The following were the key findings of the study:

• The most commonly treated conditions were psoriasis vulgaris (37.9%), vitiligo (33.3%), and guttate psoriasis (11.1%).
• The average duration of phototherapy was 5.88 months, ranging from 0.5 to 20.5 months.
• The mean cumulative phototherapy dose was 29.0 J/cm², with psoriasis vulgaris receiving 25.7 J/cm², vitiligo 41.2 J/cm², and guttate psoriasis 16.8 J/cm².
• There was a positive response in 91.7% of patients, with minimal side effects.
• Mild and temporary side effects like erythema, itching, and burning were reported in 18.5% of patients but did not impact treatment.
• Additional phototherapy sessions were not required in 67.6% of patients, and 72.2% did not experience disease recurrence.

"NB-UVB phototherapy has been established as a safe and effective treatment for pediatric skin conditions, particularly psoriasis and vitiligo, which can have a profound impact on a child's psychological well-being," the authors stated.

They emphasized that "By providing a non-invasive and well-tolerated therapeutic option, NB-UVB not only improves physical symptoms but also enhances overall quality of life. Its favorable safety profile, with minimal and temporary side effects, reinforces its role in long-term dermatological care for children."

"Given its efficacy in reducing disease recurrence and minimizing the need for additional treatments, NB-UVB phototherapy remains a valuable approach for managing chronic skin diseases in pediatric patients," they concluded.

Reference:

Menteşoğlu D, Kurmuş GI, Kartal SP. Use of narrow-band ultraviolet B in pediatric dermatology patients: ten years of experience from a tertiary care hospital. Arch Dermatol Res. 2025 Mar 24;317(1):626. doi: 10.1007/s00403-025-04148-4. PMID: 40126705.