At-Home Phototherapy Shows Comparable Efficacy for Psoriasis Treatment
In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that patients can effectively manage their psoriasis at home using narrowband ultraviolet B (nbUVB) phototherapy devices. Traditionally administered in clinics, this light therapy has been shown to deliver similar results when self-administered. Results from the LITE (Light Treatment Effectiveness) study, published in JAMA Dermatology, indicate that 60% of patients who adhered to a recommended home treatment regimen achieved clear or mostly clear skin after just 12 weeks.
Study Overview
The LITE study involved 783 participants aged 12 and older diagnosed with plaque or guttate psoriasis. Conducted over a 24-week period, participants were randomly assigned to either at-home or in-clinic treatment. Those in the home group received portable nbUVB devices, instructional guidance on their use, and tailored prescriptions considering their skin types and sensitivity to light.
Key findings included:
- After 12 weeks, 33% of at-home patients achieved clear or almost clear skin, compared to 26% of those receiving in-office treatment.
- Approximately 60% of both at-home and in-clinic patients maintained treatment frequency, demonstrating that at-home patients were more than three times as likely to adhere to the regimen.
- None of the participants reported adverse side effects that would cause them to discontinue treatment.
Challenges with Traditional Clinic Visits
Dr. Joel Gelfand, lead author of the study and a prominent dermatologist at Penn, highlighted that patients undergoing treatment in clinics face numerous hurdles. The average travel time to a clinic was around 50 minutes, coupled with expenses averaging $20 per visit. These factors can discourage patient compliance, leading to less favorable treatment outcomes. Dr. Gelfand emphasized, “Our research should influence clinical practice right away. Many insurance companies cover at-home phototherapy but make it extremely difficult to obtain coverage.”
The Importance of Patient-Centered Research
The LITE study stands out not only for its focus on at-home treatments but also for its inclusive approach to study design. Recognizing the historical underrepresentation of people of color in medical research, the study successfully involved participants across a variety of skin types and colors. There was no significant difference in treatment effectiveness between different skin tones, reinforcing the versatility of at-home nbUVB therapy across demographics.
Dr. Gelfand noted, “Whether you have very fair skin or very darkly pigmented skin, patients generally did better at home because they were able to receive treatment consistently.”
Impact on Clinical Practice and Patient Options
The findings of the LITE study indicate a significant shift in how psoriasis treatment could be approached, particularly for patients seeking less invasive or medication-free options. With the backing of the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and support from the National Psoriasis Foundation, the research provided an opportunity for patients to participate actively in every aspect of study design, from outcome measurements to analysis.
The implications for insurance companies are significant. With many patients seeking immediate treatment relief, there is a pressing need for insurers to streamline the approval process for at-home phototherapy devices, enabling faster access to effective treatment without the financial and logistical burdens often associated with clinic visits.
Looking Ahead
By illustrating that patients can manage their psoriasis effectively at home, this research opens new avenues for dermatological care that prioritize patient convenience and preferences. As the medical community looks to enhance treatment options for psoriasis, findings from the LITE study should serve as a foundation for future innovations in skin health management.
As the dialogue on psoriasis treatment continues, we invite readers to share their experiences, thoughts, and insights on the effectiveness of at-home therapies. What are your views on the accessibility and affordability of these treatments? Let us know in the comments below!
For more information on psoriasis treatments and related health technology, check out our other articles on Shorty-News or visit authoritative sources such as TechCrunch and The Verge.
References:
- Gelfand, J. M., et al. (2024). Home- vs Office-Based Narrowband UV-B Phototherapy for Patients With Psoriasis. JAMA Dermatology. doi.org/10.1001/jamadermatol.2024.3897.
