Role of adjuvant narrow band ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of chronic urticaria

Abstract

Background: Chronic urticaria is a common dermatological disorder that causes a great deal of distress in patients and affects daily life. Narrow band ultraviolet B (NBUVB) has been shown to be an effective treatment in chronic urticaria in few studies. However, the data regarding its role in chronic urticaria are limited. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the role of NBUVB in the treatment of chronic urticaria in combination with antihistamine. Materials and Methods: A total of 80 patients of chronic urticaria were recruited, out of which 40 were allocated to NBUVB-loratadine group and 40 to loratadine group. Patients were assessed using urticaria activity score (UAS) at same point of time, i.e. after 4 weeks (8 sessions), 8 weeks (16 sessions) and at follow up of 4 weeks after stopping the treatment. Results: On comparing the two groups, the mean UAS was significantly lower after 8 and 16 sessions in NBUVB-loratadine group (12.03 v/s 21.43 and 3.54 v/s 17.16, respectively). The difference in reduction of UAS7 in two groups was seen to be statistically significant (P value < 0.01). Conclusion: Thus we conclude that NBUVB may be useful in the treatment of chronic urticaria.