Narrowband UVB Phototherapy

Treatment For Severe Dermatological Conditions

Narrowband UVB Phototherapy is a preferred form of Phototherapy (light therapy) that uses (Ultraviolet) UV radiation to treat a variety of skin conditions. Narrowband UVB lamps specifically emit wavelengths between 311 and 312 nm which have superior therapeutic features and minimize lower wavelengths (erythemogenic range) when compared to Broadband UVB Therapy. Broadband UVB Phototherapy emits wavelengths between 290 to 320 nm. The lower wavelengths (around 300 nm and below) are responsible for sunburns, also called erythema (hence the erythemogenic range), which damage the skin and cause discomfort, redness, and irritation. Exposure to erythema should be minimized because it is a risk factor for melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers.

Our facility is equipped with a Houza®II UV Light Machine. To begin treatment the patient removes their clothing, puts on protective goggles, and enters into the machine which looks like a large cylindrical container. The inside of the container is layered with fluorescent light tubes which are the source of the treatment. Once inside, the door is closed and the treatment begins.

Depending on your physician’s treatment plan you may receive treatment twice to three times daily during your inpatient stay which can last 5 to 7 days. However, if you are receiving this treatment in an outpatient setting you may receive treatment three times per week for up to 6 months. The length of your sessions and minimal erythema dose (MED) will gradually increase as your sessions progress dependent on your response to therapy (skin type, toleration level, history of treatment, etc.). However, the goal during treatment is to minimize perceptible erythema so if symptoms are observed the dose and sessions will be modified. Once the desired results are achieved (remision) the MED and sessions will be weaned down.

Learn more about the Narrowband and Broadband Phototherapy at the links below: 
https://solarcsystems.com/en/information/understanding-narrowband-uvb/?v=7516fd43adaa
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/uvb-therapy-broadband-and-narrowband