UVB phototherapy in an outpatient setting or at home: a pragmatic randomised single-blind trial designed to settle the discussion. The PLUTO study
2006

Home UVB Phototherapy for Psoriasis: A Randomised Trial

Sample size: 196 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Koek Mayke BG, Buskens Erik, Steegmans Paul HA, van Weelden Huib, Bruijnzeel-Koomen Carla AFM, Sigurdsson Vigfús

Primary Institution: University Medical Center Utrecht

Hypothesis

Home UVB phototherapy is as effective as outpatient UVB phototherapy.

Conclusion

The study aims to provide valuable evidence regarding the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of home UVB phototherapy compared to outpatient treatment.

Supporting Evidence

  • 196 patients were included in the study.
  • The study compares home UVB treatment with outpatient UVB treatment.
  • Effectiveness will be measured using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI).
  • Quality of life will be assessed using validated questionnaires.
  • The study is designed to provide evidence for or against home UVB phototherapy.

Takeaway

This study is trying to find out if treating psoriasis at home with UV light works just as well as going to the hospital for treatment.

Methodology

A pragmatic randomised single-blind multi-centre trial comparing home UVB treatment with outpatient UVB phototherapy.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to non-randomized treatment assignment and patient preferences.

Limitations

The study may have limitations in generalizability due to its pragmatic design and the lack of blinding for dermatologists.

Participant Demographics

Patients with psoriasis, clinically eligible for narrowband UVB treatment.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.05

Confidence Interval

95% CI

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2288-6-39

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