Resolution of pruritus secondary to polycythemia vera in a patient treated with narrow‐band ultraviolet B phototherapy

Abstract

Narrow‐band ultraviolet B (UVB) is a newer treatment modality for photoresponsive skin diseases. Since its introduction, dermatologists continue to use it for a myriad of dermatoses. Polycythemia vera is one cause of intractable pruritus that has recently been treated successfully with narrow‐band UVB. We describe the case of a 77‐year‐old Caucasian male with a 4‐year history of polycythemia vera complicated by intractable pruritus. Narrow‐band UVB was successfully used to treat his pruritus. The patient noted an improvement in pruritus within the first four treatments and almost complete resolution after 18 treatments.

• Narrow‐band UVB
• Phototherapy
• Polycythemia vera
• Pruritus