Comparative study of effect of oral Methotrexate alone versus combination of both oral Methotrexate and narrow band ultraviolet-B in the treatment of Chronic Plaque Psoriasis

Abstract

Aim and Background:  In the present study was investigate that to compare the efficacy and safety of oral Methotrexate alone versus combination of both oral Methotrexate and  NBUVB for the treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic, disfiguring, inflammatory skin condition that is characterized by relapsing symptoms. Treatment of psoriasis continues to be a challenge. Methotrexate is often the preferred treatment option due to its lower cost. Phototherapy with narrowband ultraviolet B (NBUVB) is also considered a relatively safe treatment option. Methods: This study is a randomized prospective study. 100 patients of chronic plaque psoriasis were divided into two groups of 50 each. Group A was treated with oral methotrexate and Group B was treated with a combination of both oral methotrexate and NBUVB therapy. Outcome was measured in terms of PASI 75 (it means 75% reduction in original PASI). Data was analysed using SPSS 24version. Result: At 4 and 8 weeks, the mean PASI score for the group B (29.14±5.22 for 4 weeks & 12.74±4.59 for 8 weeks) was much lower than group A (35.19±8.2 for 4 weeks & 19.63±4.59 for 8 weeks). This difference was significant (P <0.0001). Mean time taken (PASI 75)for Group A was 11.24 ±0.86 weeks and for Group B 9.3 ± 0.69 with P value less than 0.0001. Mean cumulative dose for Group A was 156.77 ± 18.21mg and for Group B was 119.24 ± 10.28 mg (P<0.0001). Conclusion: From our study, we concluded that Combination of both oral Methotrexate and NBUVB provides more rapid clinical improvement and also minimize the side effects.