A new approach to actinic folliculitis: prophylactic narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy

We have observed an increasing number of patients referred to the Scottish Photobiology Service (SPS), who were later diagnosed with actinic folliculitis (AF) and had positive phototesting results. Treatment options for AF are limited, only a few reports in literature. The use prophylactic narrowband ultraviolet B (NB?UVB) phototherapy has not previously been described, we report on this first time. To analyse clinical characteristics, results responses treatment by SPS. undertook retrospective review over 10 years all case notes assessed through SPS, based at Unit, Dundee, UK. All women. Mean age onset was 25 mean time referral investigation 7 years. commonest site involved face, main feature being monomorphic pustules appearing after sunlight exposure. eruption could be provoked iterative doses broadband UVA irradiation five patients. offered photoprotective advice NB?UVB phototherapy. Five proceeded phototherapy; four these completed desensitization course reported either delay symptom or total prevention rash induction, complete efficacy maintained 3 one patient. demonstrate successful provocation testing as diagnostic tool AF. Additionally, recommend effective well?tolerated approach.