Psoriasis affects 2-3% of the American population. Psoriasis involving less than 10% BSA in the absence of joint involvement tends to be treated locally. More than 80% of people with psoriasis have <10% BSA involvement. A wide variety of therapies currently exist, including topical corticosteroids and Vit D analogs, oral immunosuppressant, retinoid agents, and phototherapy. Given the prevalence of localized psoriasis and dissatisfaction with treatment, investigation of localized treatment should be a priority for researchers with goals to improve the current standard of care.~UV light has a wavelength of 10nm - 380nm, which is slightly shorter than the wavelength of visible light. The UV light can be further classified to a narrow spectrum (UVB light has a wavelength of 280-315 nm). UVA has a wavelength of 315-400nm. Tanning beds use UV light to produce their effects. Whole body ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy is efficacious and is recommended as a first line option in selective psoriasis treatment recommendations. In pregnancy, UVB therapy is recommended as first line treatment for extensive plaque and guttate psoriasis.~Although UVB phototherapy has been included in the guidelines for psoriasis treatment, its use does not come without risk. Toxicities include cataract formation, herpes reactivation, photoaging, and with long-term exposure may lead to an increased risk of genital tumors in males. In addition, the use of UVB is rarely used as a first-line treatment for localized psoriasis probably due to financial issues and increased requirements for clinic visits. Narrowband UVB therapy (emission 311- 313nm) is superior to broad-band UVB light, and reduces toxicity. Psoriatic plaques can withstand much higher doses of UV light than the surrounding uninvolved skin; UV treatment of just the involved skin therefore offers increased efficacy in fewer treatments. In addition, localized treatment may remain in remission even 4 months after clearing with localized laser treatment. Localized treatment should therefore be a more favorable treatment option for psoriasis, using higher doses with sparing of healthy skin.
Psoriasis affects 2-3% of the American population. While a wide variety of therapies currently exist, including topical corticosteroids and Vit D analogs, oral immunosuppressant and retinoid agents a better understanding of phototherapy is needed. Given the prevalence of localized psoriasis and dissatisfaction with treatment, investigation of localized treatment should be a priority for researchers with goals to improve the current standard of care.