Types of UV Phototherapy

Type:Uv phototherapy Time:2016-12-01 9:18:34

1,UVB Phototherapy

UVB treatments are doing 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.

2.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 and vitiligo, Narrow Band UVB continues to show its ability with its promising results.

3.Why Narrow Band UVB is different ?

Conventional broad band UVB lamps emit a variety of wavelengths ranging from 280-330 nm.

Narrow Band UVB reduces harmful UV by emitting only wavelengths 311-312 nm.

Clinical studies show the peak 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.

4.Benefits of Narrow Band UVB Therapy

Reducing UV in wavelengths below 311 nm permits higher intensities and longer exposure times, so patients can take the maximum benefit from phototherapy.

This increased effectiveness results in a shorter course of treatment.

Extensive research confirms that patients not only avoid the danger of serious burning from exposure, they may also enjoy longer remission periods after treatment.

Remission periods are similar to those with PUVA therapy and obviously 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.

5.PUVA

PUVA combines a Psoralen drug with exposure to ultraviolet light A (UVA). Psoralen makes the body very sensitive to UVA rays. It may be used on a short- term basis to bring a severe case of psoriasis under control. The main long-term side effect of PUVA is the increased risk of skin cancer