Related Experiment Videos
Keratopathy after ultraviolet B phototherapy
Peter Komericki1, Peter Fellner, Yosuf El-Shabrawi
1Department of Environmental Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria.
Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift
|June 2, 2005
Summary
Phototherapy with ultraviolet B (UVB) effectively treats atopic dermatitis in children. However, inadequate eye protection during facial UVB treatment can lead to severe keratitis and potential long-term eye damage.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition in children, affecting up to 20% in industrialized nations.
- Phototherapy utilizing ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is a recognized treatment for AD, generally associated with a low incidence of complications.
Observation:
- A case study involving a patient with atopic dermatitis undergoing UVB treatment to the face, including the eyelids, is presented.
- The patient developed severe keratitis and facial erythema, with symptoms resolving under topical steroid therapy.
Findings:
- UVB phototherapy, while effective for atopic dermatitis, carries risks of ocular complications if protective measures are not strictly adhered to.
- Inadequate closure of the eyes during facial UVB treatment can result in acute keratitis.
Implications:
- Patients receiving UVB phototherapy for facial atopic dermatitis must be counselled on potential ocular side effects, particularly keratitis.
- The use of specialized protective eye shields during UVB treatment is recommended to prevent corneal damage and mitigate the risk of early cataract formation.