Can phototherapy be harmful?

Phototherapy is a valuable therapeutic tool in Dermatology, but there may be drawbacks. Acute and long-term adverse effects, of variable severity, include skin erythema, xerosis, pruritus, blistering, altered pigmentation, photoaging, and photocarcinogenesis.

What are the risks of phototherapy?

The short-term side effects of phototherapy include interference with maternal-infant interaction , imbalance of thermal environment and water loss, electrolyte disturbance, bronze baby syndrome and circadian rhythm disorder.

Does phototherapy hurt baby?

Generally, phototherapy is very safe and may have no serious long-term effects in neonates ; however, the following adverse effects and complications have been noted: Insensible water loss may occur, but data suggest that this issue is not as important as previously believed.

Does phototherapy cause retinal damage?

In adults, prolonged exposure to blue light can cause retinal damage . Although retinal damage from phototherapy has not been reported, eye covers for newborns are standard prophylaxis.

How long can a baby stay under phototherapy?

Babies usually need to be under phototherapy lights for around 48 hours and often longer . How long will the jaundice last? Physiological jaundice normally clears by the time your baby is two weeks old. However, sometimes it lasts longer and further investigations may be needed to rule out other causes of jaundice.

What are the long-term effects of phototherapy?

In addition, phototherapy may be associated with some long-term side effects such as melanocytic nevi and skin cancer, allergic diseases, patent ductus arteriosus and retinal damage .

Can phototherapy hurt baby eyes?

Almost all babies with high bilirubin levels who get phototherapy develop no complications; they grow into healthy children and adults. Phototherapy uses strong blue or white lights that are directed onto your baby's body.

Does phototherapy have any side effects?

When used for skin conditions, phototherapy is generally considered safe. However, you may experience a few side effects such as redness, dry skin, itchy skin, nausea (with PUVA), blisters, or folliculitis. Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles in your ski

Why are eyes covered during phototherapy?

Infants exposed to higher levels of ambient light in a NICU were found to have an increased risk of retinopathy [10]. Therefore, covering the eyes of infants undergoing phototherapy with eye patches and avoiding slip of the patches is routin

How long do babies have to stay under Bili Lights?

Your baby will need to be under the light for about 1 to 2 days . He may also lie on a blanket of light, called a bili-blanket. He will stay under the bili-light as much as possible. During this time, his eyes will be covered with patches because the light can damage them.

Can bilirubin levels go back up after phototherapy?

Bilirubin levels may rise again 18 to 24 hours after stopping phototherapy . Although rare, this requires follow-up for those who may need more treatment. Side effects — Phototherapy is very safe, but it can have temporary side effects, including skin rashes and loose stool

How long does a baby have to stay in the hospital for jaundice?

Treatment in the hospital most often lasts 1 to 2 days . Your child needs treatment when their bilirubin level is too high or rising too quickly. To help break down the bilirubin, your child will be placed under bright lights (phototherapy) in a warm, enclosed be

How long does it take for phototherapy to work?

Most people see results within 24-36 treatments , although some people respond to light therapy more slowly and changes are seen after as many as 72 treatments. Generally, patients see an average of 50-70% repigmentation of affected skin after 6 to 12 months of treatmen