Phototherapy in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris
Type:Uv phototherapy Time:2016-09-20 16:53:43Dr Aikaterini Charakida, Edward D. Seaton, Marietta Charakida, Paul Mouser, Antonias Avgerinos, Antony C. Chu
Abstract
Acne vulgaris is a common dermatosis affecting 80% of the
population. To date, different treatments have been used to manage this
condition. Antibacterials and retinoids are currently the mainstay of
treatment for acne, but their success rate varies. Phototherapy is
emerging as an alternative option to treat acne vulgaris.
Studies examining the role of different wavelengths and methods of
light treatment have shown that phototherapy with visible light,
specifically blue light, has a marked effect on inflammatory acne
lesions and seems sufficient for the treatment of acne. In addition, the
combination of blue-red light radiation seems to be superior to blue
light alone, with minimal adverse effects. Photodynamic therapy has also
been used, even in nodular and cystic acne, and had excellent
therapeutic outcomes, although with significant adverse effects.
Recently, low energy pulsed dye laser therapy has been used, and seems
to be a promising alternative that would allow the simultaneous
treatment of active acne and acne scarring.
Further studies are needed to clarify the role of phototherapy as a
monotherapy or an adjuvant treatment in the current management of acne
vulgaris.
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