When is narrowband UVB phototherapy recommended for prurigo nodularis?

Prurigo nodularis causes intensely itchy, firm nodules that are often maintained by a cycle of scratching and skin inflammation. Narrowband UVB can cover several affected areas and may reduce itch and inflammatory activity over time. It is one part of a plan: the dermatologist may also treat infection, dryness, an underlying itch trigger and the habit of scratching. A diagnosis is needed before treatment because nodules can resemble other skin conditions.

Tell the clinic about medicines that make skin more sensitive to light, a history of abnormal moles or skin cancer, and any condition affecting your immune system. Use the moisturiser and prescribed treatments as directed, but check whether products should be applied before a session. Keep nails short and use the agreed itch-relief plan to reduce scratching. Attend consistently, protect the eyes as instructed, and report marked redness, burning, blistering or a sudden change in the nodules.

Contact your clinician quickly if a nodule bleeds repeatedly, becomes increasingly painful, develops pus, or changes rapidly. Fever, spreading redness or warmth may indicate infection and needs timely assessment. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty or a severe reaction after treatment. Do not increase the light dose to chase relief from severe itch.

Ask what may be driving your itch, which areas will be treated, how itch and nodules will be tracked, and which topical or systemic options can be used alongside phototherapy. Ask for a clear plan if a session causes a reaction or if itching worsens temporarily.