Mycosis Fungoides

For Stage 1A mycosis fungoides, is it ok to go to a tanning bed to expose areas such as the buttocks to UV light?  Are the UV wavelengths used in phototherapy treatment for MF different than tanning beds, or is it ok to go to a tanning bed in moderation?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Tanning beds generate UVA or Long Wavelength UV. UVA penetrates the skin very deeply while the shorter wavelengths of UVB do not. In mycosis fungoides, UVA is used in photoherapy when combined with a Psoralen drug and the therapy is called PUVA. Narrowband UVB is also found useful in this medical condition.

I suggest you to get an evaluation done from a dermatologist as you have this medical condition and if he/she permits then you can go in for tanning beds.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Tanning beds generate UVA or Long Wavelength UV. UVA penetrates the skin very deeply while the shorter wavelengths of UVB do not. In mycosis fungoides, UVA is used in photoherapy when combined with a Psoralen drug and the therapy is called PUVA. Narrowband UVB is also found useful in this medical condition.

I suggest you to get an evaluation done from a dermatologist as you have this medical condition and if he/she permits then you can go in for tanning beds.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.