Ultraviolet A Combined with Narrow‐Band Ultraviolet B is an Effective Treatment Modality for Early Folliculotropic Mycosis Fungoides and Early Mycosis Fungoides Refractory to Narrow‐Band Ultraviolet B: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Background. Psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) is the preferred phototherapeutic modality for early‐stage folliculotropic mycosis fungoides (FMF), and for early‐stage non‐FMF refractory to narrow‐band ultraviolet B (NBUVB). However, PUVA has a problematic safety profile. Literature on the treatment with the combination of UVA and NBUVB for MF is sparse. Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of UVA combined with NBUVB for early‐stage MF, specifically for FMF and NBUVB‐refractory non‐FMF, in adult and pediatric patients. Methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted for patients treated with UVA combined with NBUVB at our center, during 1/2008–8/2022. Results. The cohort included 51 patients: 35 adults and 16 pediatric patients. The overall response rate (ORR) of 39 patients with early‐FMF (25 adults and 14 children) was 95%, and the complete response (CR) was 62%. No significant differences in ORR/CR rates were noted between adult and pediatric patients. Of 12 patients with non‐FMF (10 adults and 2 children), the ORR was 83% and the CR was 50%. In 17 patients (8 FMF and 9 non‐FMF), prior NBUVB therapy resulted in partial response/stable disease; yet, UVA + NBUVB led to CR in 9 patients (4 FMF and 5 non‐FMF). Side effects were minimal. Conclusion. Combined UVA and NBUVB is a good alternative to PUVA for adult or pediatric patients with early‐stage MF , with FMF or non‐FMF refractory to NBUVB.