Ultraviolet light therapy

Ultraviolet Light Therapy

A phototherapy booth used for UVB or PUVA treatment

A small lamp used for treating psoriasis

Ultraviolet light therapy is a form of phototherapy that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to treat various skin conditions. This therapy is commonly used to manage psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo.

Types of Ultraviolet Light Therapy

There are several types of ultraviolet light therapy, each utilizing different wavelengths of UV light:

UVB Phototherapy

UVB phototherapy uses medium-wave ultraviolet light. It is effective in treating psoriasis and other skin disorders by slowing the growth of affected skin cells. UVB therapy can be administered in two forms:

• Broadband UVB: This traditional form of UVB therapy uses a wide range of UVB wavelengths.
• Narrowband UVB: This newer form uses a narrower range of wavelengths, which has been found to be more effective and with fewer side effects.

PUVA Therapy

PUVA therapy combines the drug psoralen with UVA light. Psoralen makes the skin more sensitive to UVA light, enhancing the treatment's effectiveness. PUVA is often used for more severe cases of psoriasis and other skin conditions.

Mechanism of Action

Ultraviolet light therapy works by penetrating the skin and affecting the DNA of skin cells. This process can reduce inflammation and slow down the rapid growth of skin cells, which is characteristic of conditions like psoriasis. The therapy also helps to suppress the immune system, which can be beneficial in autoimmune skin disorders.

Applications

Ultraviolet light therapy is primarily used to treat:

• Psoriasis: UVB and PUVA therapies are effective in reducing the symptoms of psoriasis.
• Eczema: UV therapy can help reduce inflammation and itching associated with eczema.
• Vitiligo: UVB therapy can stimulate repigmentation in vitiligo patients.

Risks and Side Effects

While ultraviolet light therapy is generally safe, it can have side effects, including:

• Skin redness and irritation
• Increased risk of skin aging
• Higher risk of skin cancer with prolonged use

Patients undergoing UV therapy are monitored closely to minimize these risks.

Related Pages

• Phototherapy
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Vitiligo

References

• Feldman, S. R., & Menter, A. (2010). Ultraviolet phototherapy and photochemotherapy. In Dermatology (pp. 1234-1245). Elsevier.
• National Psoriasis Foundation. (2023). Phototherapy. Retrieved from [1]

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