PhotoTherapy
Present in natural sunlight, UVB is an effective treatment for psoriasis, vitiligo (leukoderma ),& some other skin diseases. UVB penetrates the skin and slows the growth of affected skin cells. Treatment involves exposing the skin to an artificial UVB light source for a set length of time on a regular schedule. This treatment is administered in a medical setting or at home.
There are two types of UVB treatment, broad band and narrow band. Narrow-band UVB is similar to broad-band UVB in many ways. Several studies indicate that narrow-band UVB gives faste results and produces longer remissions than broad-band UVB. It also may be effective with fewer treatments per week than broad-band UVB. At our clinic we offer narrow band UVB which is useful in these problems.
Vitiligo
Is a relatively common disease , it is little known by the general public. In modern society appearance can be all important. It is constant worry of increasing visible difference that makes vitiligo so extremely difficult to live with it for this reason that sufferer can find it hard to adjust to their changing in appearance. It can even raise questions of cultural identity when darker skinned people may have to face the prospect of a future with white patches over skin.
In fast few years several new methods have emerged including NB-UVB therapy. At moment there is no cure for vitiligo but there are treatments which can often slow down its progress and bring back pigmentation, one of these is NB-UVB which is safe.
Psoriasis
During UVB treatment, your psoriasis may worsen temporarily before improving. The skin may redden and itch from exposure to the UVB light. To avoid further irritation, the amount of UVB administered may need to be reduced. Occasionally, temporary flares occur with low-level doses of UVB. These reactions tend to resolve with continued treatment.
UVB can be combined with other topical and/or systemic agents to enhance efficacy. Combining UVB with systemic therapies may increase efficacy dramatically and allow for lower doses of the systemic medication to be used.