What is narrowband UVB phototherapy?
Narrowband UVB is the most common form of phototherapy used to treat skin diseases. “Narrowband” refers to a specific wavelength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
UVB phototherapy was formerly provided as a broadband source.
The narrowband range of UV radiation has proved to be the most beneficial component of natural sunlight for psoriasis. Narrowband UVB may also be used in the treatment of many other skin conditions including atopic eczema, vitiligo, pruritus, lichen planus, polymorphous light eruption, early cutaneous T-cell lymphoma and dermographism.
Skin conditions treated with narrowband UVB
- Compared with broadband UVB:
- Exposure times are shorter but of higher intensity.
- The course of treatment is shorter.
- It is more likely to clear the skin condition.
- Longer periods of remission occur before it reappears.
What does narrowband UVB treatment involve?
Patients attend for phototherapy two to five times weekly. If whole-body treatment is recommended, the patient is placed in a specially designed cabinet containing fluorescent light tubes.
The patient stands in the centre of the cabinet, undressed except for underwear, and wears protective goggles. Usually the whole body is exposed to the UVB for a short time (seconds to minutes).
Shorter bulbs can be used for localised UVB treatment, eg of hands and feet or a small body region.
The amount of UV is carefully monitored by the phototherapy staff. A number of protocols exist depending on the individual’s skin type, age, skin condition and other factors.
What is the result of narrowband UVB?
The skin may remain pale or turn slightly pink (the Minimal Erythemal Dose) after each treatment. Let your therapist know if you experience any discomfort.
Patches of psoriasis generally start to become thinner after five to ten treatments. Most patients with psoriasis require 15 to 25 treatments to clear. Results vary.
