Narrow-band ultraviolet B radiation: a review of the current literature.
BACKGROUND
Narrow-Band radiation (NB-UVB) is a relatively new treatment modality for psoriasis and many practitioners may be unaware of its effectiveness and applications.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study is to review the literature and compare NB-UVB to both broad-band ultraviolet B radiation (BB-UVB) and psoralen plus ultraviolet A radiation (PUVA) for the treatment of psoriasis and other dermatoses.


METHODS
A comprehensive Medline search of the literature was done on all citations electronically cataloged since the mid 1960s.


RESULTS
NB-UVB is superior to BB-UVB, but less effective than PUVA for the treatment of psoriasis, and is beneficial for the treatment of many other dermatoses.


CONCLUSIONS
NB-UVB is a useful and important adjust to the treatment of psoriasis.
Bandow
Grace D
GD
Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco Psoriasis and Skin Treatment Center, USA.
Koo
John Y M
JY
D006801:Humans; D011701:PUVA Therapy / Q000379:methods; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014467:Ultraviolet Therapy / Q000379:methods*