Narrow Band UVB Light Therapy

About Narrow Band UVB Light Therapy

Eczema is a common skin disorder presenting with scaly, itchy patches of the body, extremities and face. Phototherapy for eczema is beneficial because it can target large areas of skin without the side effects of oral or topical medications. During phototherapy sessions, a machine emitting rays of narrow band UVB (NB-UVB) light is directed at the area of the body being treated. A session takes only a few minutes, and patients can receive treatment several times a week. Other phototherapy options such as PUVA therapy has been well described for eczema; however, its limitations include nausea and light sensitivity reactions, as well as long-term skin cancer concerns. Today, NB-UVB phototherapy is a wonderful alternative for patients with fairly extensive disease. NB-UVB has proven to be one of the most effective treatment options for thousands of patients all over the world.