OPTIMIZATION OF THE NARROW-SPECTRUM UVB PHOTOTHERAPY METHOD USING REFLECTANCE SPECTROSCOPY OF THE SKIN

Abstract

The article examines the optimization of narrow-band UVB phototherapy through the use of diffuse reflectance spectroscopy of the skin. Spectra were measured with an Ocean Optics H4000 fiber-optic spectrophotometer and a specialized light guide; the reflected radiation provided information for assessing melanin and erythema indices. In 20 patients with psoriasis receiving phototherapy at 311 nm, the erythema index decreased while the melanin index increased in pathologically altered skin areas. These measurements enabled the selection of optimal UVB doses and an individualized treatment approach.