Name of the Procedure:

Application of a modality to 1 or more areas; ultraviolet
Common Names: UV Therapy, Ultraviolet Light Therapy
Medical Term: Phototherapy

Summary

Ultraviolet (UV) light therapy involves exposure to artificial ultraviolet light, typically used to treat various skin conditions. The procedure is non-invasive and usually performed on an outpatient basis. UV light waves penetrate the skin, promoting healing and reducing symptoms.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Vitiligo
• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma

Goals:

• Reduce skin lesions and symptoms like itching and inflammation.
• Promote even skin tone and improve skin health.
• Control or slow down the progression of skin disorders.

Indications

Symptoms or Conditions:

• Persistent or severe psoriasis unresponsive to other treatments.
• Moderate to severe eczema with frequent flare-ups.
• Vitiligo with extensive pigment loss.
• Early-stage cutaneous T-cell lymphoma presenting with skin abnormalities.

Patient Criteria:

• Individuals who have not responded adequately to topical treatments.
• Patients with widespread skin conditions.
• Those who can commit to a regular treatment schedule.

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Avoid using lotions, creams, or perfumes before the procedure.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Inform the healthcare provider of any medications being taken.
• Undergo a skin assessment to determine the optimal UV dosage.

Diagnostic Tests:

• Assessment of skin condition severity.
• Photosensitivity testing (if required).

Procedure Description

1. The patient may be asked to wear protective goggles to shield the eyes from UV light.
2. The affected skin areas are exposed to controlled UV light, using a specialized lamp or booth.
3. Treatment times start short (seconds to minutes) and increase gradually.
4. Sessions are typically held multiple times a week.

Tools/Equipment: UV light lamp or phototherapy booth.
Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable.

Duration

Each session typically lasts between 10 to 30 minutes. The number of sessions varies based on the severity of the condition.

Setting

Ultraviolet light therapy is usually performed in outpatient clinics or dermatology offices.

Personnel

• Dermatologists
• Trained nursing staff

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Skin redness or irritation
• Dry skin

Rare Risks:

• Premature skin aging
• Increased risk of skin cancer with prolonged use

Complication Management:

• Adjusting the UV dose
• Temporary discontinuation of treatment

Benefits

• Reduction in skin inflammation and lesions
• Improved skin appearance and feeling
• Long-lasting remission of symptoms

Results may be noticed after several weeks of consistent treatment.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Moisturize skin regularly.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure.
• Follow any specific skincare instructions provided by the physician.

Recovery Time: Minimal to no downtime is required. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately.

Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments to assess progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Alternatives

• Topical treatments (creams, ointments)
• Systemic medications (oral or injectable therapies)
• Other light therapies (e.g., PUVA therapy)

Pros and Cons:

• Topical treatments are less invasive but may be less effective for severe conditions.
• Systemic medications can have more systemic side effects.
• PUVA therapy is effective but involves additional chemicals that may lead to higher sensitivity.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Patients may feel a warming sensation on the skin.
• Minimal discomfort is typically experienced.

After the Procedure:

• Mild skin redness or dryness may occur.
• Most patients tolerate the procedure well.

Pain Management:

• Typically not required as the procedure is generally painless.