Indonesian Journal of Biomedicine and Clinical Sciences
Vol 58 No 2 (2026)

Response of narrowband ultraviolet-B phototherapy in pityriasis lichenoides-like mycosis fungoides: a case report

Rakhmadani, Silvia (Unknown)
Larasati, Kirantri (Unknown)
Yogianti, Flandiana (Unknown)
Budiyanto, Arief (Unknown)
Ardisa Pramudita (Unknown)
Paranita Ferronika (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
12 May 2026

Abstract

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is a cutaneous T-cell lymphoma that often mimics other dermatological conditions, particularly in early stages. One rare subtype is pityriasis lichenoides-like mycosis fungoides (PL-like MF), which clinically resembles pityriasis lichenoides but demonstrates the histopathological features of MF, sometimes with overlapping characteristics. The management of MF varies according to disease stage, with skin-directed therapies, including narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy, frequently used in early stages. A case is reported of a 28-year-old woman who presented with papules and erythematous patches on the trunk, arms, and legs that had worsened over two years. Histopathological examination of the skin biopsy confirmed PL-like MF. Initial treatment with topical corticosteroids for two months resulted in suboptimal improvement. The patient subsequently underwent 37 sessions of NB-UVB phototherapy with a cumulative dose of 58,764 mJ/cm². Pityriasis lichenoides-like MF is a rare variant of MF that poses diagnostic challenges. The management of MF is tailored to the disease stages. In early stages, skin-directed therapies (SDTs) are preferred, whereas in advanced or refractory MF, systemic therapy combined with SDTs is required. Narrowband UVB phototherapy is considered a safe and effective therapeutic option for early-stage MF, with mechanisms involving immunomodulation and induction of apoptosis in atypical lymphocytes. In this case, the patient demonstrated 87% clinical improvement following NB-UVB therapy, consistent with reports. Long-term follow-up is necessary to assess sustained remission and potential relapse.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

InaJBCS

Publisher

Subject

Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology Health Professions Immunology & microbiology Medicine & Pharmacology Neuroscience

Description

Indonesian Journal of Biomedicine and Clinical Sciences (InaJBCS) aims to promote the translational of basic research into clinical studies and of clinical evidence into practice. InaJBCS publishes studies that substantially enhance our standing of disease etiology and physiology; the development of ...