In this article from JDD: Excimer laser delivers measurable PASI gains but evidence is limited
A JDD meta‑analysis of 308 nm excimer laser treatment for plaque psoriasis pooled four clinical trials (patients treated twice weekly for greater than or equal to 10 sessions, PASI used as the outcome) and found a statistically significant improvement in disease severity (standardized mean change SMCC -5.94; 95% CI -10.78 to -1.10; P = 0.016). The authors searched multiple databases and used a random‑effects model because between‑study heterogeneity was very high (Cochran’s Q significant; I2 = 98.95%). In short, excimer appears effective at reducing PASI scores in the studies available, but the small number of trials, wide heterogeneity and limited sample sizes temper confidence in how broadly the result applies.
For the dermatology HCP, the pragmatic takeaway is that 308 nm excimer is a viable, evidence‑supported option (particularly for patients unwilling or unable to use extensive topicals or systemic therapies), but you should review the trial protocols (treatment frequency, dosing, lesion selection) before adopting it routinely. The meta‑analysis quantifies benefit but also highlights the need for larger, direct‑comparison trials to define optimal indications and parameters.
Read the full JDD article to examine the methods, study-level details and implications for integrating excimer into your psoriasis toolkit.
J Drugs Dermatol. 2026;25(2): doi:10.36849/JDD.9359
Blog write-up assisted by AI
