Chapter 16: Common Dermatologic Therapies
Physical Modalities: Phototherapy
Phototherapy can be used to treat many inflammatory skin disorders, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, pityriasis lichenoides, and vitiligo. There are different types of phototherapy available, the most common being narrowband UVB. Phototherapy units are available in some hospitals or in private dermatology clinics and may also be purchased for home use. Patients usually get phototherapy two to three times per week, with each session lasting only minutes. It can take several weeks before patients notice a significant improvement in their skin.