Vitamin D3 (VD3) and its analogs have been shown to inhibit growth of various cell types found in neurofibromas and pigmented lesions of patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Excimer light irradiation at 150–300 mJ/cm2 in combination with VD3 efficiently inhibited growth of cultured fibroblasts, mast cells, Schwann cells, and melanocytes. Long-term whole body irradiation with narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) in patients with NF1 significantly increased serum levels of VD3, which was accompanied by a brightening of generalized skin hyperpigmentation. Irradiation with either laser or intense pulsed-radio frequency in combination with topical application of VD3 analogs yielded moderate to fair improvement of café-au-lait macules, small pigmented spots, and skin-fold freckling in NF1 patients. Thus, topical or systemic application of VD3 or one of its analogs may provide beneficial effects to treat skin lesions for patients with NF1.
Part of the book: A Critical Evaluation of Vitamin D