ABSTRACT

Although unfavorable physical conditions of the phototherapy unit exist, the first step in improving treatment quality should be geared towards the more human component of treatment, namely the physician patient interaction. (Turk J Dermatol 2010; 4: 9-13)

Twenty-six were women and 26 were men, aged between 5 and 76 (mean age 42.1±15.9). Majority of patients had been treated for psoriasis (55.8%) and vitiligo (26.9%). Most commonly used modalities were narrow band UVB (65%), local PUVA (23%) and PUVA (6%). Majority of patients (73%) reported that they "always" experienced a favorable atmosphere and had a fair reception in the phototherapy unit. The unit was described as "congested", "crowded", but also a place which was found to be "promising improvement of skin disease". Most frequently mentioned difficulties of phototherapy were trips to the unit, use of photosensitizing medication and the relatively high cost of treatment. 76% stated that they would prefer phototherapy rather than other treatment alternatives. The attending physician of the phototherapy unit was found to be the factor most in need of improvement.

Patients treated at our phototherapy unit between 2000-2006 were asked to fill out a questionnaire including 20 questions. Fifty-two of 78 patients contacted answered it.

We aimed to learn about patients' feelings and thoughts regarding phototherapy/photochemotherapy.