Ultraviolet Therapy Flashcards
T/F: Ultraviolet radiation lies between Visible light and X-rays on the spectrum chart?
True
What are the three regions of UV light?
• UVA – PUVA – carcinogenic, declining use – UVA1 – declining use • UVB – BBUVB – declining use – NBUVB – Less CA risk, more common • UVC – – photogermicidal, however not used commonly
Are the physiological effects of UV radiation limited to the superficial layer of skin?
yes, absorbed in the first 1 – 2mm of skin
• Physiologic effects = very superficial
– Alters cell biochemistry and metabolism
– May cause cell damage and death
– Inflammatory reaction
– Increased capillary permeability
• Skin should be tested first
– Minimal erythema dose (faint redness 24
hours after tmt)
What are the established clinical indications for UV radiation therapy?
• Established – Psoriasis – Atopic dermatitis – Vitiligo – Mycosis Fungoides
What are the pending clinical indications for UV radiation therapy?
• Pending – Infections – Lichen planus – Pruritus – Chronic urticaria – Seborrheic dermatitis – Nodular prurigo – Polymorphic eruption – Localized scleroderma – Pressure ulcers
What are the contraindications of UV radiation therapy?
• Over the eye • Malignant skin • History of melanoma • SLE, Porphyrias, pellagra sarcoidosis, herpes simplex • Active tuberculosis • Kidney, cardiac, and liver diseases • Hyperthyroidism • Diabetes mellitus • Acute eczema or dermatitis
What are the risks of UV radiation therapy?
- Areas recently exposed to other radiation
- Fever
- Large dose
- Children
- Pregnant or lactating
- Photosensitizing drugs
What are examples of photosensitizing drugs?
• Antibacterial / Antimicrobial
– Tetracyclines, Sulfonamides, Griseofulvin
• Thiazide Diuretics
• Other meds
– Phenothiazines (Thorazine) tranquilizers
– Psoralens – (for psoriasis)
– Sulfonylureas – (for diabetes)
– Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) antihistamine
