UVA1 Is Often A1!

After reviewing the evidence, a workshop group discusses the effectiveness, safety, and costs of UVA1 phototherapy.

Long-wavelength ultraviolet A light (UVA1, 340–400 nm) has been used to treat skin disease for more than 30 years. UVA1 penetrates deeper than other ultraviolet phototherapies and has different biologic effects than UVB and shorter-wavelength UVA (UVA2, 315–340 nm). UVA1 works via oxygen-dependent mechanisms after photosensitization of endogenous lipids and proteins. DNA dimers are not formed. Dermatologists, physicists, and scientists with experience or interest in UVA1 conducted a workshop review of UVA treatment, grading evidence by the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines (SIGN) system.

The group concluded that medium- or high-dose UVA1 works well for morphea. Appearance might worsen, but function (e.g., joint movement) improves. Other co…

Reviewing Author

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)