Recommendations and Basic Principles of Phototherapy

Authors

  • Tashmeeta Ahad, BM BCh(Oxon), MA(Cantab), MRCP(UK)(Derm) Department of Dermatology and Skin Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia Photomedicine Institute, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58931/cdt.2025.61134

Abstract

Phototherapy has long been a cornerstone in dermatology, offered in most dermatology clinics globally. Despite the advent of several new biologic and systemic therapeutics, phototherapy remains a favoured treatment option due to its low side-effect profile and efficacy for treating mild-to-moderate inflammatory dermatoses. It can be used for a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, lichen planus, mycosis fungoides, pityriasis lichenoides, nodular prurigo, pruritus, and morphea.

In this article, we will provide an overview of the basic principles of phototherapy, as well as offering recommendations for managing a phototherapy service. Our focus will be on whole-body phototherapy, without the use of psoralens.

Author Biography

Tashmeeta Ahad, BM BCh(Oxon), MA(Cantab), MRCP(UK)(Derm), Department of Dermatology and Skin Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia Photomedicine Institute, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia

Dr. Tashmeeta Ahad is a Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of Translational Photomedicine Research at the University of British Columbia Department of Dermatology, and clinician-scientist at the Photomedicine Institute, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute. She is a dermatologist at the Skin Care Centre, Vancouver General Hospital. She specializes in photodermatology, focusing on the translation of optical techniques for skin conditions, photosensitivity disorders, and the use of laser, photodynamic therapy, and phototherapy. She was awarded the Geoffrey Dowling Fellowship by the British Association of Dermatologists and completed her fellowship in Photobiology and Laser at the University of British Columbia. She is a Michael Smith Health Research BC/Lotte & John Hecht Memorial Foundation Health Professional-Investigator, and recipient of the inaugural ‘Dr. Mercy Alexis Research Grant in Skin of Colour’ and Innovation Grants awarded by the Canadian Dermatology Foundation and Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

References

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Published

2025-03-07

How to Cite

1.
Ahad T. Recommendations and Basic Principles of Phototherapy. Can Dermatol Today [Internet]. 2025 Mar. 7 [cited 2025 Mar. 12];6(1):15–19. Available from: https://canadiandermatologytoday.com/article/view/6-1-Ahad

Issue

Volume 6, Issue 1, Spring 2025

Section

Articles