How is ultraviolet radiation used to treat psoriasis? It has been known for centuries that sunlight exposure can improve psoriasis. Two forms of ultraviolet radiation are used clinically: ultraviolet B (UVB, 290 to 320 nm) and ultraviolet A (UVA, 320 to 400 nm) combined with an oral photosensitizer, psoralen plus UVA (PUVA). Although not as effective as PUVA, use of UVB results in less incidence of side effects and is often used first in the treatment of light-sensitive psoriasis (see also Chapter 54). |
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