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Phototherapy in Skin of Color
Olivia R Ware1, Jonathan Guiyab2, Ginette A Okoye3
1Howard University College of Medicine, 2041 Georgia Avenue Northwest, Towers Building, Suite 4300, Washington, DC 20060, USA.
Abstract:
Phototherapy in skin of color requires special consideration. Pigmented skin is an efficient ultraviolet filter. Hence, higher doses of ultraviolet radiation are generally more effective and well tolerated in skin of color. An objective and practical system has not yet been established to determine optimal phototherapy dosing in skin of color. The authors recommend obtaining a detailed history of each individual patient's response to sun exposure before prescribing a phototherapy dosing regimen. In addition, providers should consider the role of socioeconomic factors and their impact on phototherapy-related outcomes, including barriers to access and compliance.
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