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Phototherapy, or ultraviolet light, is defined as either short wave light energy (Ultraviolet-B light [UVB]) or long wave light (Ultraviolet-A [UVA]). UVB is available as narrowband or broadband. It has been known for many years that UVA and UVB light slows abnormal growth of normal skin cells which is associated with psoriasis. |
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UV light therapy has been studied for over 100 years. Unlike oral, IV or IM medications, its safety record is proven in children and for long-term use with minimal side effects. However, you do need to follow your doctor’s
prescription exactly to avoid sunburn which can lead to skin cancer. Our units help to ensure this with numerous safety features including a controlled prescription timer, child-proof key lock switch and more. Many units from National Biological are equipped with narrowband UVB lamps which use a wavelength that has never been linked to cancer. |
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Which Form Of Ultraviolet Light Is Best? |
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UVA light must always be used with an oral or topical drug named Methoxsalen. Consequently, treatment with UVA light requires active monitoring on the part of the physician. In most cases, it is preferable to use UVB light, since there is no need for systemic drugs (like Methoxsalen), treatment times are short,
and it is relatively easy to monitor and control treatment. Narrowband UVB is often replacing conventional UVB because in many cases, it is safe and effective while taking less time. |
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How Does Phototherapy Compare With Other Forms Of Psoriasis Treatment? |
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Prescription and over-the-counter topical medications include topical steroids, very strong prescription steroids, and systemic drugs. Each of these alternatives is either ineffective for any length of time or has a potential for side effects which can be quite serious. New biologics are being heavily promoted by drug companies, but they are very expensive, require frequent monitoring,
and are less effective for many patients. Phototherapy has been recognized as safe, effective, and economical and has stood the test of time. |
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How Often are Treatments Taken and How long Are Treatment Times? |
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This depends on the condition. For psoriasis, treatments are taken 3 to 5 times per week, with treatment times beginning at a few seconds and increasing to several minutes over time. Once clearing is achieved, you can determine whether your maintenance needs require regular phototherapy or whether the patient’s remission needs only periodic checkups. |
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At What Point Is Home Therapy A Viable Option? |
| If the patient has involvement with 10% or more of his/her body, phototherapy is the fastest, most effective treatment possible. There is minimal risk involved, and the patient can treat effectively at home. You will determine an effective schedule of home treatment and monitor the patient’s progress. All orders for our home therapy devices require a physician's prescription. |
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Under normal usage, the lamps have a useful life of three to five years. After that they will slowly lose power, so treatment times will increase two- or three-fold. Our lamps carry a
90 day warranty, and we always have replacements in stock. |
