Psoriasis, a condition that affects the skin occurs due to cells growing too fast; they build up on the skin causing lesions or patches to form. Phototherapy, or light treatments, is an option to treat stubborn areas.
Effects
Phototherapy effectively clears psoriasis that does not respond to other treatments, notes PsoriasisNet. Phototherapy keeps psoriasis dormant for long periods, generally between six and 12 months.
Mechanism
According to the article, "Guidelines of Care for the Management of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis," evidence suggests psoriasis is an immunologic disease. The spectrum from ultraviolet rays in light treatments suppresses the overactive immune response seen in psoriasis.
Advantages
Other treatments for psoriasis have a tendency to weaken the body's ability to fight an infection, unlike light treatments. Phototherapy is an acceptable option for pregnant women, notes the PsoriasisNet website.
Precautions
Physicians need to know what other medications the psoriasis sufferer takes, as phototherapy may cause a reaction if combined with other psoriasis medications like tazarotene and salicylic acid.
Considerations
Phototherapy treatments are administered over a period of time, typically two to five treatments over at least a two-week period, sometimes much longer, claims PsoriasisNet.
References
- PsoriasisNet: Is Phototherapy Right for Your Psoriasis?
- "American Academy of Dermatology"; Guidelines of Care for the Management of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis; Alan Menter; October 2009
