Surface dosimetry in phototherapy: comparison of three ultraviolet B lamps used in the treatment of psoriasis

The British Journal of Dermatology
J L Snow, S A Muller

Abstract

The quantitation (dosimetry) of ultraviolet B irradiation (UVB) administered during phototherapy for psoriasis is fundamental to this modality of treatment because only absorbed irradiation can cause a photochemical reaction and, hence, a phototherapeutic effect. Significant differences may exist in surface dosimetry achieved with different UVB irradiators, and this could have important consequences for the observed clinical efficacy of phototherapy as well as practical implications for avoiding burning when transferring patients between systems. Multiple anatomically referenced polysulphone photodosimeters were applied to the skin of five subjects receiving treatment for severe psoriasis. Three subjects were irradiated with both a free-standing hot quartz lamp and a fluorescent cabinet. Two others were irradiated with a flat bank of fluorescent tubes. Topographical maps of surface irradiation were constructed. 'Cold' areas (< 50% of stated dose) included the neck, upper chest, shoulders, and anterolateral thighs for the hot quartz lamp; the medial arms, medial legs, and feet for the cabinet; and the lateral arms, forearms, lower legs, and feet for the bank of tubes. 'Hot' areas (> 100% of stated dose) included the forearms and...Continue Reading

References

Oct 1, 1978·The British Journal of Dermatology·B L DiffeyA V Challoner
May 13, 1976·Nature·A DavisB L Diffey
Jul 1, 1987·Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology·D FanselowM V Dahl
Jan 1, 1984·Archives of Dermatology·E J Androphy, W H Eaglstein

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Citations

Jul 18, 2002·The Australasian Journal of Dermatology·Nghi T HuynhChristopher A Commens

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