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Phototherapy
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 Ultraviolet
light has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can
clear psoriasis from the skin. Phototherapy treatments
are performed three times per week, and most patients become
clear after 8-9 weeks. In order to accommodate our
patients' busy schedules, treatment sessions are available
as early as 6am, as late as 7pm, and during weekends.
Treatments are administered by two full-time nurses.
The cost is covered by Medicare and most
insurance plans.
Several forms of phototherapy are available. The type
selected is determined by the severity and location of the
patient's psoriasis as well as the patient's medical
history. Treatment types available include:
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Narrowband UVB: This treatment is safe, highly
effective, and drug-free. The patient stands in a
specially designed cabinet containing UVB light tubes.
The affected areas of the body are exposed to the UVB for a
short time (seconds to minutes). The effects generally
become noticeable after seven to ten treatments.
- PUVA:
Prior to treatment, patients ingest a photosensitizer
tablet. One hour later, the patient stands in a
specially designed cabinet containing UVA bulbs, and the
affected areas of the body are exposed to the UVA for a
short time.
-
 Hand/foot
PUVA: Prior to treatment, patients
soak the hands and/or feet in a photosensitizer solution.
These areas are then exposed to UVA light in a targeted
manner that spares unaffected parts of the body.
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