[Psoriasis. Natural versus artificial balneophototherapy]

Hautarzt. 2010 Aug;61(8):683-90. doi: 10.1007/s00105-010-1971-2.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Artificial balneophototherapy is an imitation of the natural balneophototherapy (Dead Sea climatotherapy; DSC) using highly concentrated salt solutions (25%) and UVB radiation. In 2008 the artificial balneophototherapy was included in the German healthcare system as an effective, evidence-based therapy for patients with moderate-severe psoriasis. In contrast, natural DSC is still considered a "non-standard and off-label therapy". Therefore we analyzed all studies published in the past two decades on both artificial and natural balneophototherapy comparing them in effectiveness, length of remission and practicability. Evidence-based studies on DSC showed good clinical results and long remission periods in psoriatic patients; the two methods seem comparable in effectiveness. Patients with chronic, therapy-resistant psoriasis should have access to DSC if they fail routine measures.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Balneology / methods*
  • Climatotherapy / methods*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Psoriasis / diagnosis*
  • Psoriasis / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ultraviolet Therapy / methods*