Phototherapy in Childhood Dermatoses

The study reviewed 20 years of phototherapy treatment in 113 children with conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, and alopecia areata. Phototherapy, especially narrow-band UVB, was effective in most cases, with high response rates for psoriasis and PLC. Over 50% re-pigmentation was achieved in vitiligo patients treated with PUVA and narrow-band UVB, but only 30% of alopecia areata patients showed complete hair regrowth. Erythema was the most common adverse effect. The study emphasized phototherapy's value but also highlighted concerns about long-term risks like skin aging and carcinogenesis, particularly in Caucasian populations.