Scalp Psoriasis Treatment With a Fiber Optic Comb

Completed · Phase 1/Phase 2

Conditions studied: Psoriasis

In brief

This study will test the safety and effectiveness of a novel fiber optic device for treating scalp psoriasis with ultraviolet (UV-B) light. A effective treatment is not currently available for people with scalp psoriasis. Present methods for treating psoriasis with UV-B light cannot be used for the scalp because hair is usually blocking the light from reaching the affected skin. Our method overcomes this problem with the use of a comb that has optical fibers to deliver light directly to the skin. We will evaluate this device in a clinical setting and will use the results to tailor the design of the comb before producing it in large quantities.

Key facts

Study ID

NCT00007293

Run by

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)

People needed

30

Starts

2000-08-01

Expected to finish

2002-07-01

Last updated by the study team

2007-01-04

Who can join

Age: 18 and older. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.

You may qualify if…

• Subjects of either sex and any race or ethnic background with chronic, stable, bilateral psoriasis of the scalp.

You may not qualify if…

• Subjects who are currently taking systemic medications for psoriasis (e.g., methotrexate, retinoids).
• Subjects who are currently using or have used topical medications other than emollients in the past 6 weeks on their scalp.
• Patients with pustular psoriasis, known photosensitivity disorders, lupus erythematosus, or unstable major illnesses preventing participation in the study.

Where it is running

• Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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