Ultraviolet radiation dosimetry in phototherapy for atopic dermatitis

The ultraviolet radiation doses received by patients undergoing phototherapy for atopic dermatitis were measured with the polymer film polysulphone. Patients were irradiated with either Philips TL12 fluorescent lamps (UVB/UVC ratio 8.7) or Wolff Helarium lamps (UVB/UVC ratio greater than 1300). From the measured cumulative doses received during an 8-week course of phototherapy, followed by an analysis of the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer as a consequence of the treatment, it was concluded that phototherapy for atopic dermatitis can be considered safe.