Ultraviolet Phototherapy of Uremic Pruritus

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Abstract
The beneficial effect of sunburn-spectrum UV (UVB) phototherapy on uremic pruits was studied. Seven patients were treated twice weekly for 4 wk with UVB to onle half of the body and placebo phototherapy to the other half. All patients noted generalized improvement without localization of benefit to the UVB side, suggesting a systemic effect of UVB. A comparison of 3 schedules varying from 1 to 3 treatments weekly showed that the percentage of patients responding was not influenced by frequency of UVB exposure, although patients treated more intensively improved faster. In 3 patents, improvement was dealyed until 2 wk after completion of a course of 6 treatments over 2 wk, indicating a delayed onset of benefit in at least some patients. Overall 32 of 38 patients improved after a course of 6 or 8 UBV exposures. Pruritus has recurred in 15 patients after a mean remission of 3 mo. Sixteen patients are known to remain in remission for a mean of at least 10.6 mo. after the 1st or 2nd course of treatment. A systemic mechanism of action may exist for the long-lasting relief of uremic pruritus afforded by UVB.

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