A 5-years Retrospective Study on Narrowband Ultraviolet B (NBUVB) Phototherapy Utilisation Experience in A Tertiary Hospital in East Malaysia
- Author:
Teo Hock Gin
1
;
Kiing Jiu Wen
1
;
Pubalan Muniandy
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: Phototherapy; Narrowband ultraviolet B (nb-UVB); Ultraviolet A; Psoriasis; Vitiligo
- MeSH: Phototherapy; Tertiary Care Centers; Malaysia
- From:Malaysian Journal of Dermatology 2021;46(June 2021):38-42
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Phototherapy had been a less favourable treatment in recent years. Our study aims to audit the usage of NB-UVB phototherapy service in a tertiary hospital in East Malaysia.
Methods:This is a retrospective study. Phototherapy file of patients who underwent NB-UVB phototherapy between year 2016 and 8 March 2021 were reviewed. Demographic data, treatment history, and acute side effects were analysed.
Results:Forty eight subjects were recruited in this study. The majority (33.3%) of the subjects were in 20-29 age group. There was an equal number of male and female subjects. About 66.7% of the subjects had psoriasis and 18.8% of them had vitiligo. Nearly 36.6% of the subjects had 26-50% body surface area involved at initial phototherapy. Almost 54.2% of the subjects had <50 sessions of NB-UVB phototherapy. About 52.1% of the subjects had a cumulative dose of NB-UVB <25 J/cm2 while 26.7% of subjects had a cumulative dose >200 J/cm2. Acute side effects including burning (17.8%), pruritus (4.4%) and flare of psoriasis (2.2%).
Discussion:Low utilization rate of NB-UVB phototherapy was likely due to logistical and transportation factors. Psoriasis was the commonest indication for NB-UVB in our study followed by vitiligo. Annual skin malignancy surveillance should be done especially on patients received NB-UVB >350 sessions even after the discontinuation of treatment. Most patients tolerate NB-UVB phototherapy well with no major side effects.
Conclusion:In conclusion, NB-UVB phototherapy is a relatively safe yet underutilised treatment in our centre. - Full text:15.2021my0005.pdf
