Overview

Phototherapy is a therapeutic procedure using ultraviolet light to treat various skin conditions.

Phototherapy is crucial for treating psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Learn more in our comprehensive RxDx Dermatology Course

Indications

✓
Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis

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Vitiligo

Skin depigmentation

✓
Eczema

Atopic dermatitis

✓
Mycosis Fungoides

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma

✓
Pityriasis Lichenoides

Inflammatory condition

Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications

✗ Patient refusal
✗ Lupus erythematosus

Relative Contraindications

✗ Pregnancy
✗ History of skin cancer
✗ Photosensitivity

📋 Equipment Checklist

Check off items as you gather them:

Pre-procedure Preparation

Preparation includes patient assessment, skin type evaluation, informed consent, and understanding phototherapy protocols.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Patient Assessment

Evaluate skin type and condition.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong skin type
  • Inadequate assessment

💡 Pro Tip:

Use Fitzpatrick scale.

Step 2: Dose Calculation

Calculate appropriate dose.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong dose
  • Poor calculation

💡 Pro Tip:

Use MED testing.

Step 3: Patient Preparation

Prepare patient for treatment.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor preparation
  • Missed protection

💡 Pro Tip:

Protect sensitive areas.

Step 4: Treatment Application

Apply UV treatment.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong dose
  • Wrong technique

💡 Pro Tip:

Use proper technique.

Step 5: Post-treatment Care

Provide care instructions.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor instructions
  • Missed complications

💡 Pro Tip:

Give clear instructions.

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Post-procedure Care

Post-procedure care involves sun protection, monitoring for side effects, and scheduling follow-up appointments.

Complications & Management

Complication Incidence Signs Management Prevention
Erythema 20-30% Redness, burning Cooling, analgesics Proper dosing
Burns 5-10% Severe redness, blistering Cooling, dressings Proper technique
Premature aging 10-20% Skin aging Time, sun protection Proper technique
Skin cancer risk Long-term Increased risk Monitoring Proper technique

Clinical Pearls

💡

Always assess skin type before treatment.

🎯

Use appropriate dose calculation.

⚡

Protect sensitive areas.

🔍

Monitor for side effects.

📊

Document treatment parameters.

🎨

Consider long-term risks.

⚠️

Monitor for complications.