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NARROW BAND UVB

Narrow band UVB is a form of phototherapy (light treatment) using cabinets with special light bulbs emitting a particular type of light - (311nm)

Narrow band surround body UVB machine.

 

The patient stands inside the machine and the doors are closed. Lights are found throughout the inside, including the doors.

 

For those who are claustrophobic, it is reassuring to know that there are no locks on the doors.

 

Treatment time is typically 1 minute.

Hand and foot ultraviolet machines.

 

The hands and feet can be treated simultaneously.

 

Main uses:

 

  • Psoriasis

  • Eczema

  • Vitiligo

  • Lichen Planus

  • Pityriasis Rosea

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Instructions for use of the narrow band UVB machine:

 

  • During treatment, all patients are required to cover their eyes with protective goggles which are available from the receptionist.

  • Male patients are required to cover the genital area. 

  • Patients are required to stand in the centre of the light cabinet with arms at rest. 

  • The time is set on the timer on the outside of the cabinet. 

  • The cabinet doors are not locked and you may come out of the cabinet at any time. 

  • Inform the phototherapist about any new medication that you are taking.

  • Inform the therapist if you experienced any redness or blistering of the skin during your last treatment. In that case, the dose will need adjusting or the treatment may need to be skipped.

  • Additional unprotected sun exposure should be avoided on the day of treatment.

  • A broad spectrum sunblock (UVA and UVB) should be used for the remainder of the day that treatment is administered.

  • You will be assessed after approximately every 7 treatments.

 

 Possible complications include:

 

  •   Sunburn reaction

  •   Corneal burn if the eyes are unprotected

  •   Cataract formation if the eyes are unprotected

  •   Photoallergic dermatitis (including drug reaction)

  •   Freckling of the skin

  •   Aging of the skin

 

Although an increase in certain skin cancers has been reported with PUVA, narrow band UVB has not been associated with such increase. 

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Narrow band UVB compared to PUVA

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Over the past few years, narrow band UVB has overtaken PUVA as the preferred option in phototherapy (light treatment) because of its increased safety and ease of use.

 

The main differences between UVB and PUVA are the following:

 

  • Treatment time is shorter with UVB thereby reducing UV exposure and risk

  • No capsules/ tablets are required before UVB treatment.

  • No glasses are required after treatment

  • children as young as 2 months can have narrow band UVB (minimum age 12 years for PUVA)

 

Both narrow band UVB and PUVA require the use of specially protective goggles during treatment.

 

Results of treatment with narrow band UVB

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