Narrow-band ultraviolet b phototherapy of uremic pruritus

uremic pruritus is a major problem for patients undergoing haemodialysis causing more distress than pain. The pathophysiology of uremic pruritus is multifactorial and poorly understood which in part explains the lack of an effective treatment. There are several empirical treatment modalities that are derived from small clinical trials and case reports. They include general measures as optimization of dialysis therapy, topical treatments and systemic treatments. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of NB-UVB phototherapy in alleviating uremic pruritus. We conclude that NB-UVB phototherapy can represent an effective and safe therapeutic modality for uremic pruritus. However maintenance therapy is recommended to prevent relapses.