Kernel Medical Sub-website : www.kerneluvb.com
Narrow Band UVB phototherapy is different
Type:Uv phototherapy Time:2015-05-08 13:51:02UVB treatments are administered in a physician¡¯s office, clinic or at home with a home phototherapy device. There are two types of UVB treatments: broad-band and narrow-band. The major difference between them is that narrow-band UVB units emit a more specific or ¡°narrow¡± range of UV wavelengths. Narrow-band UVB is now more frequently used than broad-band UVB.
Narrow Band UVB
Narrow Band UVB has proven to be the most effective phototherapy treatment option for thousands of psoriasis patients all over the world. With more research being done every day on conditions such as eczema, vitiligo, and mycosis fungoides, Narrow Band UVB continues to show its versatility with its promising results.
Why Narrow Band UVB is different
- Conventional broad band UVB lamps emit a variety of wavelengths ranging from 280-330 nm.
- Narrow Band UVB virtually eliminates superfluous and harmful UV by emitting only wavelengths 311-312 nm.
- Clinical studies show the peak therapeutic effectiveness of UVB to be within the range of 295-313 nm, but wavelengths below 300 nm can cause erythema or severe burning and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Benefits of Narrow Band UVB Therapy
- Eliminating UV in wavelengths below 311 nm permits higher intensities and longer exposure times, so patients can derive the maximum benefit from phototherapy.
- This increased effectiveness permits more aggressive treatment regimens, resulting in a shorter course of treatment.
- Extensive research confirms that patients not only avoid the danger of serious burning from sub-erythemal exposure, they may also enjoy longer remission periods after treatment.
- Remission periods are similar to those with PUVA therapy and markedly superior to broad band UVB treatment. Studies show 38-40 percent of narrow band treated patients require no additional therapy for at least 12 months.
* Philips, A.G., manufacturer of the ultraviolet lamps used in narrow band UVB phototherapy cabinets, has amassed an exhaustive library of studies from around the world documenting the therapeutic effectiveness and safety benefits of narrow band UVB treatment.