About Phototherapy

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What is Phototherapy?

Phototherapy refers to using UV rays for treatment of skin disorders. In Dermatology practice UVB(290-320 nm) light rays or UVA(320-400nm)are used after administration of psoralen’s with UVA(PUVA). Types of Phototherapy units commonly are, The Whole Body Unit Panels Hand Foot Unit

 

Whole Body Unit

In the whole body unit the patient enter the unit and the ultra violet rays are delivered.

Panel

A Panel which treats only the part of the body which is exposed to light and so patients has to turn around to expose other half.

Hand Foot Unit

The hand foot unit is meant for treating the palms and dorsal surface of hands and the plantar and dorsal surface of feet.

Indication for Phototherapy:

UVA

• Psoriasis
• Vitiligo
• Lichen Planus
• Atopic dermatitis
• Mycosis Fungoides
• Miscellaneous

UVB

• Psoriasis
• Generalized Pruritus
• Atopic dermatitis
• Miscellaneous

Expected out come and results

The response to PUVA for the treatment of Psoriasis varies from patient to patient. Student studies have shown that an average of 21 sittings may be needed for complete clearance.

For control of vitiligo 50-150 sittings are required for repigmentation.

PUVA controls the disease but does not cure the disease.

Hand/Foot Unit:

Localized disease limited to extreme ties is better treated with hand foot unit.

Results

Before	After
Before	After
Before	After

 

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