Phototherapy in the management of childhood dermatoses

Abstract:

In the last decade, phototherapy, i.e. the use of ultraviolet light with or without a photosensitizer, has been routinely used in the treatment of childhood dermatoses. With the development of light sources, narrow-spectrum phototherapy emitting UVB wavelengths of 311±1 nm and PUVA baths, the use of phototherapy in paediatric patients has become safer, more efficient and less erythemogenic, while inducing longer periods of remission. Phototherapy (UVB) and photochemotherapy (PUVA) in modern dermatology have been proven effective in the treatment of numerous childhood dermatoses, especially psoriasis, atopic dermatitis and parapsoriasis. The use of phototherapy in children requires close cooperation with parents and high competence of the treating dermatologist-venereologist and other medical professionals administering the therapy. The risk of skin cancer increases with the cumulative dosage of UVB radiation received during lifetime. Therefore, an accurate indication for phototherapy in childhood is of paramount importance, along with a strict follow-up of the cumulative UVB dosage administered

Key words:
child; dermatoses; photochemotherapy; phototherapy