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Updated: Apr 17, 2026
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Clinical Application of Intense Pulsed Light Therapy and Radio Frequency for Treatment of Ocular Surface Diseases
Published on: July 3, 2025
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Phototherapy-related ophthalmologic disorders
Jennifer DePry1, Jennifer Brescoll2, Loretta Szczotka-Flynn3
1Department of Dermatology University Hospitals Case Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH.
Clinics in Dermatology
|February 24, 2015
Summary
Phototherapy offers effective dermatologic treatment, but ocular structures require protection. Specialized eyewear is crucial to prevent potential vision damage during these light-based therapies.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Ophthalmology
- Photomedicine
Background:
- Phototherapy is a widely used treatment for various skin conditions.
- Technological advancements are expanding phototherapy applications.
- Different phototherapy modalities exist, including PUVA, UVB, photodynamic therapy, and intense pulsed light.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential adverse effects of phototherapy on ocular structures.
- To highlight the importance of protective eyewear during phototherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of phototherapy modalities and their ocular side effects.
- Analysis of protective eyewear options for phototherapy.
Main Results:
- Phototherapy can cause acute and chronic adverse effects on the conjunctiva, cornea, lens, and retina.
- Various protective eyewear, such as goggles and contact lenses, can mitigate ocular risks.
Conclusions:
- Ocular protection is essential during phototherapy to prevent adverse effects.
- Appropriate eyewear safeguards periocular and ocular structures from potential phototherapy-induced damage.
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