Ultraviolet Radiation Therapy

Ultraviolet radiation therapy is the therapeutic application of ultraviolet (UV) rays . It lies between visible and x-ray in the electromagnetic spectrum. It has been used for decades for the treatment of a variety of skin disorders. UV rays are effective in destroying bacteria and accelerating the process of  wound healing. Sun is the universal source of UV rays.

Types

• UV - A (315 - 400 nm)
• UV - B (280 - 315 nm)
• UV - C (below 280 nm)

 

Types of Modalities that emit UVR:

• High pressure mercury vapor lamp
• Fluorescent lamps
• Theraktin tunnel
• PUVA apparatus

 

Indications

• Psoriasis
• Acne vulgaris
• Vitiligo
• Improve status of vitamin D in bed bound patients
• Pressure sores
• Surgical incisions
• Eczema
• Chronic infection

Research Based Evidence on Effective Results of UV rays in following conditions

• Ultraviolet C (UV-C) is used in disinfection of physiotherapy equipment's that are used in the Hospital Intensive Care Unit (ICU). A wavelength of 254 nm, duration is 60 s of illumination and dose of 0.78 J/cm2 is recommended.
• It is used in the treatment of tuberculosis scarring
• UV rays can also be used in hospitals for hyperbilirubinemia ,for neonatal jaundice
• Management of rheumatological conditions
• Ultraviolet radiation is used in management of postmenopausal chronic musculoskeletal disorders because it improves Vitamin D quality. The physiotherapist can incorporate aerobic exercises along with it.
• Ultraviolet radiation (UVB) have positive effect on the healing of decubitus ulcer

 

Physiologic Effects

• It causes erythema because of dilation of blood vessels in skin
• Desquamation or increased peeling of skin that alters skin resistivity to UV rays exposure
• UVB helps in vitamin D formation
• It stimulates melanocytes to produce melanin which in turn reduces the penetration of UV rays into skin.
• UVB and C radiation lead to conjunctivitis
• UVA may also lead to the formation of cataracts.
• Carcinogenesis is a danger physiologic effect that occurs due to prolong UV rays exposure as it effects the DNA synthesis  treatment sessions should be shorter and should not exceed four weeks.

Contraindications

• Not for eye related conditions
• Skin cancer
• Pulmonary tuberculosis
• Cardiac Conditions
• Kidney and liver disease
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Fever
• Unresolved Erythema