Type of publication:
Journal article
Author(s):
Bajaj, Sonali; Desai, Prachi; Singh, Akanksha; *Jain, Dimple; Wahie, Shyamal.
Citation:
Clinical & Experimental Dermatology. 2026 Feb 10. [epub ahead of print]
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Narrowband UVB (NBUVB) is a second-line treatment for chronic moderate-to-severe atopic eczema unresponsive to adequate topical therapy, and is known to induce good short-term improvement of eczema severity. However, it is unclear how adult patients fare with their eczema severity long after completion of a course of NBUVB.
OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the severity of atopic eczema in adults, 1 year following completion of NBUVB, using validated clinical activity measures.
METHODS: We undertook a multi-centre prospective observational study of adults with moderate-to-severe atopic eczema who were prescribed NBUVB as part of their standard clinical care. Assessments were made at baseline prior to starting NBUVB, at the end of NBUVB and at 4, 8 and 12 months after completion of NBUVB.
RESULTS: Eighty participants with moderate-to-severe atopic eczema (mean SCORAD 39.2, POEM 18.5, IGA 3.2) underwent NBUVB therapy. Significant reductions were observed post-treatment: SCORAD decreased to 17.8, POEM to 8.2, and IGA to 1.7 (p<0.001 achieved for all time points). These therapeutic effects were sustained at 4, 8, and 12 months post-treatment (n=27 at 12 months). Loss of follow-up was attributed to non-attendance exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and patient relocation. Mild adverse events (n=5), including erythema and eczema flares, were reported, with no serious events.
CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that NBUVB may provide a long-lasting effect for patients who complete a course, helping to diminish their eczema severity to a more manageable level.
DOI: 10.1093/ced/llag066
