title: Ultraviolet phototherapy for cutaneous diseases: a concise review.
abstract: Phototherapy is the use of non-ionizing radiation, primarily in the ultraviolet spectrum, to treat disease. In dermatology, ultraviolet (UV) phototherapy remains an established, lower cost, and often preferred option for many common skin conditions, despite the introduction of newer potent biologics. This article introduces a principal therapeutic modality in the treatment of psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (eczema), vitiligo, and morphea among other diseases where oral manifestations may be present, providing basic information about the use of UVA, UVB, and PUVA. Practical considerations and side effects of phototherapy are described. Phototherapy is an effective treatment for many illnesses and carries a relatively benign side-effect profile.
authors.affiliation: University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Vangipuram
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
authors.forename: S R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Feldman
mesh_terms: D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000532:radiotherapy; D006801:Humans; D009182:Mycosis Fungoides / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000532:radiotherapy; D011701:PUVA Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000532:radiotherapy; D012594:Scleroderma, Localized / Q000532:radiotherapy; D012595:Scleroderma, Systemic / Q000532:radiotherapy; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D014467:Ultraviolet Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D014820:Vitiligo / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000532:radiotherapy
keywords: PUVA; UV therapy; atopic dermatitis; phototherapy; psoriasis; vitiligo