Targeted phototherapy
Also called focused phototherapy, concentrated phototherapy, micro phototherapy.
Ultraviolet light delivered straight onto a skin lesion through a hand piece, leaving healthy skin untouched.
Being updatedThe clinic is checking this page against its current practice. Everything here is from the patient leaflet; please ask at your consultation before you rely on a detail.
What it is
Phototherapy means delivering light or ultraviolet radiation to treat skin disorders. Targeted phototherapy — also called concentrated phototherapy, focused phototherapy or micro phototherapy — delivers the ultraviolet radiation directly onto the skin lesion through a special delivery mechanism. The term covers both laser and non-laser technologies. Most devices emit radiation in the UVB range, with peak emission in the narrowband wavelength around 308–311 nm, while some non-laser machines emit UVA as well.
What it treats
Vitiligo, in localised and resistant patches; localised plaques of psoriasis; hypertrophic lichen planus; cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides); morphoea; and hand eczema.
How it works
Most of these machines use a conventional high-pressure burner emitting ultraviolet light. Fibre-optic cable systems deliver the energy directly to the lesion. Some machines can supply both UVA (330–380 nm) and narrowband UVB (290–330 nm), and can deliver preset doses, so treatment time is short.
Why it is used
- Only the involved areas are exposed, sparing uninvolved skin.
- Energy is delivered quickly, so each session is shorter.
- Because uninvolved areas are not exposed, higher doses of energy can be delivered selectively to the lesions.
- Shorter treatment means fewer visits to the clinic and less inconvenience.
- The manoeuvrable hand piece allows treatment of difficult areas such as the scalp, nose, genitals, lining of the mouth and ear.
- It is easy to administer to children, because delivery is hand-held.
- The machines occupy less space.
Limitations
Targeted phototherapy is more expensive. It is not adequate for treating extensive areas, given the cost and the time involved, and it is not recommended when lesions cover more than about 10 per cent of the body area.
Written from the clinic's own patient leaflet, by Dr. D. A. Satish.
Common questions
- What procedures and treatments are offered?
- Laser hair removal, the Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser for pigmentation and tattoos, intense pulsed light, targeted phototherapy and PUVA phototherapy, PRP and GFC injections for hair restoration, microneedling fractional radiofrequency (MNRF), chemical peeling, microdermabrasion and cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen. The clinic also has patient information on shingles vaccination.
Related
- VitiligoA condition in which the cells that make skin pigment stop working, leaving milky-white patches on the skin.
- PsoriasisA long-term inflammatory skin disease that produces red, thickened patches covered with silvery-white scales.
- Lichen planusAn itchy rash of violet or skin-coloured bumps with fine white streaks, which can appear almost anywhere on the body.
- PUVA phototherapyPsoralen, a medicine that makes the skin sensitive to light, combined with ultraviolet A light in a special machine.
Please note
The information on this website is for general education only. It is not a substitute for a consultation, a diagnosis or a prescription. Always see a qualified doctor about your own condition.
Results of any medical or cosmetic treatment vary from person to person. This clinic does not guarantee a cure or a specific outcome.