Treatment of Folliculitis with Monochromatic Excimer Light (308 nm)

Abstract

Background/Aims: 308-nm excimer light has been reported to be safe and effective in the treatment of chronic skin diseases. The aim of the study wasto prove the efficacy of 308-nm monochromatic excimer light in the treatment of recalcitrant and antibiotic-resistant folliculitis. Methods: Eight patients affected with folliculitis were enrolled and treated twice weekly with the 308-nm excimer light. The follow-up was 12 weeks from the end of the treatment. Results: A mean number of 13 sessions (range 10–20) was performed with increasing dosage according to the patient’s phototype and response. Remission, in terms of number and infiltration of papulopustular elements, was achieved in all patients after 4–16 therapeutic sessions. At the end of the follow-up period, recurrence of folliculitis was observed in 2 patients. Conclusions: These results suggest that the 308-nm excimer light is a valid therapeutic option for the treatment of resistant forms of folliculitis especially in difficult-to-treat areas.