Featured review: What are the benefits and risks of visible light therapy for treating atopic eczema?

Cochrane Skin is pleased to announce the publication of a new review,Phototherapy for atopic eczema. This review was led by dermatologists from Amsterdam University Medical Centers, and supported by a key stakeholder: the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). The AAD provided funding for this systematic review (32 studies, 1219 people with clinically diagnosed atopic eczema), which enabled publication of the protocol and full review within 13 months of title registration.Key messagesNarrowband (NB) ultraviolet B (UVB), compared to placebo (a sham treatment), may improve eczema severity (including itch) and may not affect the number of people leaving a study because of unwanted effects.We were unable to confidently draw conclusions for other phototherapy (light therapy) treatments.Future research needs to assess longer term effectiveness and safety of NB-UVB and other forms of phototherapy for eczema.This Cochrane Review will be used to inform the AAD ’s update to their guidelines of care for the management of acne (expected in the third quarter of 2023).What is eczema and how is it treated?Eczema is a condition that results in dry, itchy patches of inflamed skin. Eczema typically starts in childhood, but can improve with age. Eczema is caused by a combination of genetics and environmental factors, which lead to skin barrier dysfunction. Eczema can negatively impact quality of life, and the societal cost is significant.Eczema treatments are often creams or ointments that re...
Source: Cochrane News and Events - Category: Information Technology Authors: Source Type: news