Treatment of uremic pruritus with narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy: an open pilot study

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2005 Jul;53(1):149-51. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2004.12.052.

Abstract

We report the results of a pilot study of narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy for the treatment of 20 patients with uremic pruritus. Ten patients completed the 6-week study period. A total of 8 patients were found to be responders. Of the remaining 10 patients who left the study before 6 weeks, 6 were satisfied with the response. In the follow-up period, 7 responders could be examined, and 3 were in remission 6 months after completing treatment. However, pruritus recurred in the remaining 4 responders. Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy may be an effective treatment for patients with uremic pruritus. Recurrence of pruritus, however, is a frequent problem.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pilot Projects
  • Pruritus / etiology*
  • Pruritus / therapy*
  • Ultraviolet Therapy*
  • Uremia / complications*