Decoding Phototesting: Is Your Skin Sun-Sensitive?
Decoding Phototesting: Is Your Skin Sun-Sensitive?
The Essentials
Discover how phototesting can help diagnose sun sensitivity and guide treatment for your skin.
Contents
- What is Phototesting?
- Why Phototesting Matters
- Preparing for Phototesting
What is Phototesting?
Phototesting is a diagnostic procedure used to assess how your skin reacts to UV light. It involves exposing small areas of skin to different wavelengths to determine the minimal erythema dose (MED), which is the smallest amount of UV that causes redness.
Why Phototesting Matters
Identifying the MED can help doctors pinpoint the type of photosensitivity you have, whether it's triggered by UVA, UVB, or visible light. This information is crucial for tailoring effective treatment plans and photoprotection strategies.
Preparing for Phototesting
Before undergoing phototesting, patients must stop using certain medications and topical agents to avoid interference with results. This preparation ensures that the test accurately reflects the skin's response to UV exposure.
FAQs
What is the purpose of phototesting?
To determine how skin reacts to UV light.
What does MED stand for?
Minimal Erythema Dose, the smallest UV amount causing redness.
Why is stopping medications necessary before phototesting?
To ensure accurate test results.
The Bottom Line
Could phototesting reveal hidden sensitivities in your skin?
Additional References
- Yashar SS, Lim HW. Classification and evaluation of photodermatoses. Dermatol Ther 2003.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.