Psoriasis Treatment via Light Exposure: Variations, Efficacy, and Potential Risks
For individuals living with psoriasis, light therapy can be a valuable tool in managing symptoms. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential long-term risks associated with this treatment.
Light therapy, or phototherapy, involves a qualified health professional shining ultraviolet (UV) light on the skin to help manage psoriasis. This treatment can slow the overgrowth of skin cells, suppress the immune system, reduce inflammation, allow the skin to heal, decrease or eliminate itching, and in some cases, remove plaques entirely [1].
However, prolonged use of UV light therapy can increase the risk of skin cancer due to the damaging effects of UV radiation on DNA in skin cells. This risk is especially noted with certain types of phototherapy that use UVB light, although narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) is generally considered safer and does not significantly raise the risk when used alone and properly monitored [1][5].
Repeated exposure to UV light can also cause premature aging of the skin, characterized by wrinkles and loss of elasticity [3]. Patients often experience skin redness, burning, or erythema that resembles sunburn. In rare cases, blistering may occur in treated areas [1][3]. Some patients report skin irritation, rash, or worsening of their psoriasis lesions during or after phototherapy [3][5].
Narrowband UVB phototherapy is the most common and safest phototherapy for psoriasis. Several studies have shown it does not significantly increase the likelihood of skin cancer when used appropriately and without other risk factors [1]. However, prolonged and intense UV exposure, including broadband UVB and PUVA (psoralen plus UVA), has been linked with higher skin cancer rates, notably squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma [5].
Regular skin examinations and adherence to treatment protocols help mitigate these risks. Light therapy devices vary in UV wavelength and intensity, influencing side effect profiles. Red light therapy, which is different from UV phototherapy, does not increase skin cancer risk and may even promote skin repair, but it is not a standard treatment for psoriasis [4].
In conclusion, phototherapy for psoriasis carries some long-term risks, particularly an increased risk of skin cancer with prolonged UV exposure and premature skin aging. These risks are minimized with narrowband UVB therapy under medical supervision, but regular monitoring is essential [1][3][5].
Other treatment options for psoriasis include topical PUVA, balneophototherapy, pulsed dye laser (PDL), and a blue light device for home use. Approximately 70% of people see either a noticeable improvement or complete remission with light therapy, although symptoms will likely reappear at some time [2].
References: [1] National Psoriasis Foundation. (2021). Phototherapy. Retrieved from https://www.psoriasis.org/treatments/phototherapy [2] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Psoriasis: Diagnosis & Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/treatment/overview [3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Psoriasis: Diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354794 [4] National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2020). Red light therapy for psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7010303/ [5] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Skin Cancer Prevention: Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/sun/skin-cancer-prevention/uv-radiation-fact-sheet
- Some individuals with psoriasis, seeking relief from their symptoms, may turn to switchers, altering between different treatment options, including light therapy.
- Health-and-wellness seekers should be informed about the medical-conditions associated with prolonged use of light therapy, such as the potential increased risk of skin cancer and skin aging.
- Science has demonstrated that certain treatments for skin conditions like psoriasis, such as narrowband UVB phototherapy, have lower risks of causing skin cancer compared to others, like broadband UVB and PUVA.
- The treatment of psoriasis is a complex journey for many personas, involving various treatment methods, regular skin examinations, and adherence to protocols to minimize risks associated with these treatments.
- Outside of light therapy, other treatment options for psoriasis are available, and while they may not increase the risk of skin cancer, it's essential for individuals to continue educating themselves about the potential side effects and long-term impacts on their health and wellness.
