Ultraviolet A1 phototherapy for mycosis fungoides.

BACKGROUND

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most common form of primary cutaneous lymphoma, and is characterized by a malignant proliferation of CD4+ cells. Psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA) irradiation is the most common treatment for cutaneous lesions. However, PUVA carries the risk of adverse reactions to psoralens and long-term risk of skin cancer. UVA1 may be a safer alternative.

AIM: To assess the efficacy of UVA1 phototherapy in patients with early-stage MF (T1-T2).

METHODS

Four patients with early-stage MF were treated with 1630-2710 J/cm(2) UVA1 given in 29-40 fractions, and the effect was assessed by clinical examination and by high-resolution ultrasonography.

RESULTS

Complete clinical remission of MF was achieved in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

This preliminary report indicates that UVA1 phototherapy might be an efficient treatment for early-stage MF.