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

ABSTRACT

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