Ultraviolet radiation therapy: determination of the first degree erythema dose in blacks and its implications

The Kromayer lamp is one of the most effective instruments in the production of therapeutic ultraviolet rays (Linct; 1967; Scott; 1973). Experts who recommend its technique and use say that at a distance of 4 inches it produces a First-degree erythema dose (E1) on the human skin in 10 seconds (Scott; 1973). A total of 30 blacks (Nigerians) patients were recruited at the dressing section of the out-patient department of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex; Ile-Ife; for this study; the purpose being to test whether the above parameters are applicable in our environment