Recent Developments in Phototherapy: Treatment Methods and Devices

We review recently patented methods and devices that allow for more effectively targeted phototherapy with fewer side effects. Among the new devices and methods reviewed here are narrow-band UVB (311-313 nm) with a flat-type light source and the new xenon chloride excimer light (308 nm), both of which allow for targeted spot irradiation, limiting the unnecessary exposure of healthy skin to UV light. Some new devices are designed to selectively irradiate targeted nasal and oral mucosal tissue and to deliver controlled doses of UV light. Devices that provide targeted phototherapy attenuate treatment-induced increases in skin temperature, thereby reducing tissue damage and increasing skin tolerance to high UV doses. Other recently patented methods include the use of irradiation efficacy enhancers, such as topical formulations of provitamin D and its analogs, followed by irradiation with UV and/or blue light. Combined phototherapy and electrotherapy therapy can also be used to treat selected skin areas. These new methods and devices are aimed at improving the safety and efficacy of phototherapy, especially targeted phototherapy.