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Is it safe to treat psoriasis with light?
Type:Uv phototherapy Time:2018-12-15 9:20:59In addition to medical treatment, the treatment methods commonly used in patients with psoriasis are probably treated with uv phototherapy. Uv light, commonly known as illuminating, are a physiotherapy method widely used in the treatment of psoriasis. For those who are over-treated or afraid of medication, UV phototherapy treatment can be chosen according to the condition. If you have or will be using UV therapy, do you understand the principles of UV light treatment? Do you know the precautions for UV treatment?
First, the principle of treatment of UV phototherapy
It is currently believed that the immunomodulatory effects produced by 311nm UV-irradiated skin are the key to exerting therapeutic effects. Studies have shown that after 311nm uv light is applied to the skin, the skin cells absorb ultraviolet light, and the protein is decomposed to produce a histamine-like substance, which promotes blood vessel expansion. In addition, uv light can also regulate endocrine function, promote metabolism, and improve immune function. Therefore, it has a certain effect on the treatment of psoriasis. Why patients and friends tend to reduce the summer, in addition to sweating, and the intensity of the sun is also very important.
Second, the method of uv phototherapy.
In addition to treatment with UV light alone, combined with topical therapy, the combination therapy has the advantage of reducing the cumulative dose of UV radiation, reducing exposure time and prolonging the remission cycle (maintaining for more than one year or longer). More importantly, the combination of topical medications combined with treatment reduced skin lesions faster.
Third, the precautions of uv light
(1) Take necessary measures to reduce the occurrence of adverse reactions.
(2) Be alert to photosensitivity psoriasis. Photosensitive psoriasis will undergo a "homomorphic response" when treated with ultraviolet light. For some patients with psoriasis who are aggravated by winter in the summer, the possibility of photosensitivity should be considered. UV therapy should be used with caution. In this part of the patients, there will be more new skin lesions when treated with ultraviolet light, and even the condition will be significantly worse.
(3) Irregular intermittent treatment with uv light may cause irritation, aggravate the spread of skin lesions, and fail to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Therefore, it is necessary to have a planned treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Patients with good compliance are still better after treatment for ten years and twenty years.
(4) Eye protection should be paid during treatment. Non-irradiated parts such as male genital area and face should be protected.
Fourth, the adverse reactions of uv therapy
After uv treatment, if the dose is too large, erythema, pain and other reactions may occur. Need to suspend treatment, continue after the erythema subsides. After repeated exposure to UV treatment, the skin in the normal area may undergo photoaging, dryness, and itching. Therefore, emollients should be used in general, and outdoor activities should pay attention to sun protection. In addition, hyperpigmentation may occur in ultraviolet therapy, so facial patients should perform necessary occlusion.
In addition, whether UV is carcinogenic is the most important issue for every patient. According to a World Health Organization research report, ultraviolet light is carcinogenic, especially in low latitudes, the risk of skin cancer is significantly increased. Therefore, the use of ultraviolet therapy, should develop a personalized treatment plan to maximize its therapeutic effect and reduce its cumulative dose.