FDA APPROVED HOME SYSTEM TREATS SKIN CONDITIONS USING PHOTOTHERAPY

From: KMR Communincations
Published: Tue May 24 2005


Since it was first developed in the early 1900’s, phototherapy (sometimes called light therapy) has become an increasingly popular and effective treatment for psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema, and other skin conditions. Phototherapy treats skin conditions by using different wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light. These are either UVA (shorter wavelength) or UVB (longer wavelength). Phototherapy is prescribed after an evaluation by a dermatologist, who will take into consideration a patient's medical history and skin condition. The most common phototherapy prescriptions are PUVA (UVA light + psoralen tablets which have known side effects), Broadband UVB phototherapy (which emits a broad range of light, including some harmful rays) and Narrowband UVB phototherapy, which emit wavelengths concentrated in the therapeutic range. The Narrowband UVB light is free from the common and sometimes dangerous side effects of many of the drugs in common use today. If used properly there are almost no side effects. It is not a gimmick or passing "new age" therapy. Phototherapy has been scientifically proven time and time again.

Until the UVBioTek™ Home Phototherapy System came along, full body Narrowband UVB systems were not practical for home treatments - they were too large and very unattractive. But the sleek folding design of the UVBioTek™ system is suitable for even the smallest apartment. In fact, many people now have installations in riverboats, RVs, hallways, garages, bathrooms, bedrooms, walk-in closets, and even living rooms.

How does it treat Psoriasis

People suffering from psoriasis are the most widely prescribed phototherapy group. Psoriasis affects more than 6 million people in the United States. There is no cure for psoriasis, but phototherapy with UVB light can manage the condition, effectively maintaining a remissive state. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and to slow rapid skin cell division. Exposure to sunlight has long been a proven technique that helps people with psoriasis, but the full spectrum of UVA and UVB light from the sun can damage healthy skin, as can exposure to full body ultraviolet light, which is sometimes used by physicians to treat the condition. Exposing these activated T cells to specific wavelengths of UV light causes them to die, a process called apoptosis. Apoptosis reduces inflammation and slows the overproduction of skin cells that cause plaques.

Studies in UVB Phototherapy

Studies performed over the last ten years have consistently shown that patients receiving UVB phototherapy, particularly Narrow Band UVB phototherapy, do not risk developing skin cancers any more than the general population. Narrow Band UVB, which corresponds to the most "biologically effective" range of the light spectrum, is the safest, most effective treatment and has fewer side effects than any other phototherapy treatment available for patients. Therefore, more and more doctors are prescribing this type of treatment for patients suffering from psoriasis.

The attractive appearance and flexibility of UVBioTek™’s Narrow Band UVB Phototherapy System is a plus, but the biggest advantage is the quick and effective light treatments. The wrap-around design allows for an overall exposure, which cuts treatment time down from 20-40 minutes to as little as 3-8 minutes. Having the ability to take routine phototherapy treatments at home (without having to work around a doctor's office schedule) can greatly improve quality of life and allows many patients to remain free of skin conditions year round. With built-in safety features to continuously monitor treatment and protect from overexposure, the UVBioTek™ Home Phototherapy System gives patients control to perform treatments exactly as instructed by their doctor—but in the convenience of their own home. In addition, the flexible five-panel design allows patients to maximize their treatment by positioning the lamps to best treat problem areas.

Is a prescription required to buy a UVBioTek™ Home Phototherapy System?

Yes. Ultraviolet lamps generate intense rays that can damage skin and eyes if not properly administered. The doctor is responsible for assuring that the patient is receiving the proper exposure based upon the skin type and the diagnosis of the skin condition; therefore, federal law requires a prescription before a system can be shipped. There is, however, a huge up-side to having a doctor’s prescription! With a prescription, most insurance will cover about 80% of the equipment cost.

Cost: Model 800B $4,850.00

Cost: 1600B $5,950.00

For More Information log onto www.uvbiotek.com
Company: KMR Communincations
Contact Name: Alissa Bell
Contact Email: Alissa@kmrcommunications.com
Contact Phone: 212-213-6444

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