UVB Phototherapy for itching

Hi .... does anyone have any experience or knows if UVB phototherapy can be used while on 500 HU ????

[Mazcd Partner MPNVoice]

Hi Keiks, you need to ask your haematologist or specialist nurse. Best wishes, Maz

[Hidden in reply to Mazcd]

Hi Maz......thanks ... my hematologist had no idea about UVB phototherapy, I told him about it !!! ... I’m in the process of getting a new one. I will keep searching for an answer cause this itching/burning/pinching is unbearable and phototherapy helped somewhat. But since starting hydroxyurea a few days ago I realized I may not be able to do it!!! ☹️☹️. Have a good day!! Be well !!

[hunter5582]

If you are having the dreaded itch, perhaps a changing meds from HU to ruxolitinib should be considered. Rux is specifically indicated when pruritis is evident. Definitely something to speak to a MPN-Specialist doc about.

Definitely talk to your doc about UVB Phototherapy. HU increases your risk of skin cancers and you are supposed to limit exposure to sunlight (UV light).

I have cooccurring eczema, which can be very uncomfortable/itchy too. I have had great success with Eucrisa. My dermatologist confirmed that it would work for pruritis too.

Hope you find relief soon.

[Hidden in reply to hunter5582]

Thanks hunter5582... I don’t think it’s the HU.... just started that 2 days ago. I’ve had this terrible severe itching/burning for about 8 months and mild itching for about 3 years prior. I think I would ask my doc about eucrisa or I’m hoping I’m one of the few who gets relieved by HU!!!

[hunter5582 in reply to Hidden]

Sorry. I need to clarify. I do not think HU would cause the itching. It just would not help it. The itching may be associated directly with the MPN and HU does not work to address the underlying physiology driving the problem. Ruxolitinib is known to be effective for this problem.

[Hidden in reply to hunter5582]

Ok Thankyou so much for this info!!