Optimizing vitiligo treatment: examining the role of narrow-band ultraviolet B phototherapy

Paola Scarlett Díaz De Alba; Andrea Sierra Franco; María Daniela Millán Montaño; Aurora Guadalupe García García; Narda Carolina Ramírez Cortes; Fernando Hernandez Vespero

doi:10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20232820

Authors

Paola Scarlett Díaz De Alba Hospital General Regional, IMSS, Guadalajara, Jalisco, México
Andrea Sierra Franco Hospital General Regional, IMSS, Guadalajara, Jalisco, México
María Daniela Millán Montaño Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, México
Aurora Guadalupe García García Clínica del Pilar, Guadalajara, Jalisco, México
Narda Carolina Ramírez Cortes Clínica del Pilar, Guadalajara, Jalisco, México
Fernando Hernandez Vespero Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20232820

Keywords:

Vitiligo, Autoimmune-pigment disorder, Narrow-band ultraviolet B phototherapy, Depigmentation, Treatment efficacy and safety

Abstract

Vitiligo is a common autoimmune-pigment disorder associated with skin depigmentation. Narrow-band ultraviolet B phototherapy (NB-UVB) has become an effective treatment option for this disease, resulting in significant pigmentation in patients, especially those with facial lesions and dark skin tones. However, the best treatment plan is still under discussion, and more research is needed to assess long-term safety, including the risk of skin cancer. In addition, alternative options such as current immunomodulators and herbal therapies are promising but need further studies. This study reviewed the existing literature on NB-UVB phototherapy's efficacy and safety profile for treating vitiligo. The study focused on factors affecting the treatment response and the potential benefits of combining NB-UVB with other treatments. NB-UVB phototherapy is safe and effectively reduces depigmentation in vitiligo patients. Factors such as disease duration, skin type, and scope of vitiligo lesions may influence treatment results. Using NB-UVB with other treatments can increase results. Although UVB NB phototherapy is a safe and effective option for vitiligo treatment, more research is needed to optimize its use and improve treatment outcomes, especially in different patient groups.

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