How effective can a phototherapy unit be for the skin?

Phototherapy is a dermatological technique and also used in other areas of medicine, where ultraviolet light (UV) radiation is used for the treatment of skin or skin diseases. Thanks to the anti-inflammatory action, it possesses UV radiation, allowing the treatment of inflammatory dermatological and neoplastic skin diseases.

The use of phototherapy began at the beginning of the 20th century and from there have emerged several modalities being the commonly used UVA therapy (340-400 nm), PUVA (Psoraleno + UVA), broadband UVB (280-320 nm) and the most recent narrow band UVB (311 nm). It is a technique that is commonly indicated in extensive skin diseases, in which the application of a topical treatment is insufficient. It is frequently used in pathologies such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, fungoid mycosis and vitiligo.

Efficacy of phototherapy units

Narrowband UVB phototherapy is currently the most widely used, because phototherapy units with this type of lamp have shown equal efficacy with UVA radiation in most dermatological diseases with a lower rate of side effects, being phototherapy of choice in children and pregnant women.

Exposure to UV light allows rapid control of some skin diseases such as psoriasis, offering greater effectiveness with fewer side effects and increased long-term maintenance. These phototherapy units usually have a safety system that allows to control at all times its operation and the dose to be applied. The mechanism of action of phototherapy is complex, based on the combined action of the inhibition of epidermal proliferation, an anti-inflammatory effect, and several immunomodulatory actions.

Radiation used in phototherapy units

  • UVA radiation: It is a type of radiation that penetrates deeper, but is less potent, which is why a photosensitizing drug is needed, that is to favor or enhance the effect of UVA radiation, such as psoralene giving rise to PUVA (psoralene + UVA). When there are very extensive skin conditions psoralene is given in tablets according to the patient’s weight, 2 hours before the session, while in rashes located in the hands and feet it is given in cream about 15 minutes before the session. In the case of PUVA therapy there is an anti-inflammatory effect, but also a delayed phototoxic erythema.
  • UVB radiation: it is a more superficial type of radiation, but it has enough power to achieve the desired effects without the need of accompanying drugs. UVB therapy has comparable efficacy to PUVA, and less erythematogenic. Therefore, it exposes a better security profile.

What dose of radiation should you receive?

Depending on the type of disease that occurs, the type of lesions and the characteristics of each patient, a treatment with PUVA or UVB will be performed. The radiation dose per session will also depend on the skin type of each patient.

They can usually be administered in 2 to 3 sessions per week, up to approximately 15-20 sessions. The eyes and genital area in males should be covered and protected during treatment.

What does Kalstein offer you?

Kalstein a company MANUFACTURER of medical and laboratory equipment of the highest quality and the best technology at the best PRICES in the market, so you can make your PURCHASE with us, knowing that you have the service and advice of a company specialized in the field and committed to provide you with safe, economical and effective options for the performance of your functions in the right way. This time we present our Child Bilirubin Phototherapy Unit YR02194. Our line of phototherapy products provides you with the reliability and stability of LED light intensive phototherapy for your baby patient. The unit has a long service life providing between 20,000 and 30,000 hours of light therapy. This device has the following features:

  • LED fluorescent lamp as radiant elements of phototherapy.
  • The curing angle of the lamp can be adjusted horizontally.
  • The height of the lamp head can be adjusted.
  • The stainless steel bracket can be adjusted.
  • Wheels can be locked.
  • Timer to record phototherapy operation.
  • Use in incubators, irradiant heat moses and any type of moses.

For more information we invite you to take a look at HERE