A 308-nm monochromatic excimer light in the treatment of palmoplantar psoriasis

J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2006 May;20(5):523-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2006.01503.x.

Abstract

Background: Various reports have shown the efficacy of narrow-band UVB (311-313 nm) and excimer laser (308 nm) in the treatment of psoriasis.

Objective: To prove the efficacy of light produced by xenon-chloride excimer at 308 nm (monochromatic excimer light, MEL) in the treatment of palmoplantar psoriasis (PP).

Methods: Fifty-four patients (29 male and 25 female) affected by PP were treated with MEL every 7-14 days. A mean number of 10 sessions was performed with an increase of the dose depending on patient's skin type and response.

Results: All 54 patients completed the treatment. After 4 months of MEL we observed a complete remission in 31 patients, a partial remission in 13 patients, and a moderate improvement in 10 patients.

Conclusions: These results suggest that MEL can be considered as a valid therapeutic option for treatment of selected forms of PP.

MeSH terms

  • Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation
  • Female
  • Foot Dermatoses / radiotherapy*
  • Hand Dermatoses / radiotherapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Psoriasis / radiotherapy*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ultraviolet Therapy / methods*