Ultraviolet B Phototherapy: A New Approach for Resistant Fungal Skin Infections

A new clinical trial conducted by Cairo University explores the efficacy of narrowband ultraviolet B (NBUVB) phototherapy in managing resistant and relapsing cases of tinea corporis and tinea cruris. This study leverages advanced phototherapy techniques alongside established antifungal medications like itraconazole and terbinafine to address fungal resistance, a growing concern in dermatological care.

The trial is not yet recruiting, according to information from November 2025. Healthcare professionals, researchers, and regulatory teams involved in dermatology and medical device oversight should take note of this novel intervention aimed at improving outcomes in challenging fungal infections.

In this article:

What is the clinical trial about?

The trial aims to assess the safety and performance of NBUVB phototherapy as an adjunctive treatment for resistant and relapsing fungal infections. It combines this device-based therapy with the existing pharmacological standard of care: itraconazole and terbinafine. The study focuses on tinea corporis and tinea cruris, two common superficial fungal infections that often become stubbornly resistant to treatment.

How does NBUVB phototherapy work?

NBUVB phototherapy uses a specific wavelength of ultraviolet light to manage immune-related dermatological conditions. While widely used for psoriasis and vitiligo, its application in fungal infections represents a novel therapeutic approach. The device works by delivering targeted UVB rays to the fungal infection site, reducing inflammation and fungal cell viability. This mechanism could make NBUVB a valuable tool for managing cases where standard antifungal therapy alone proves inadequate.

Why is this study important?

Fungal resistance is a growing global healthcare challenge. Treatment failure in tinea corporis and tinea cruris cases can lead to prolonged discomfort for patients and increased healthcare costs. If successful, the trial could provide evidence for integrating NBUVB phototherapy into clinical practice, offering a more effective solution to certain resistant fungal infections. Regulatory insights from this trial could also guide medical device approvals and standardization for broader clinical use.

FAQ

1. Who can participate in the trial?

The trial is not yet recruiting, and eligibility criteria are not detailed at this time. Interested individuals should monitor updates on the study’s official page.

2. What fungal infections are being addressed?

The study targets tinea corporis and tinea cruris that are resistant or prone to relapse.

3. How is NBUVB different from regular UV therapy?

The wavelength in NBUVB therapy is narrow and specifically designed for precision treatment, making it safer and more effective than generic UV therapies.

Conclusion

This trial shows promise for addressing resistant fungal infections using an innovative combination of phototherapy and established antifungal medications. If successful, it could pave the way for enhanced clinical protocols and regulatory advancements in medical device applications.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. For professional guidance, consult relevant experts or authorities.

For full information

For full information about the announcement, see the link below.

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07242703?term=medical+device