Ultraviolet irradiation in systemic lupus erythematosus: Friend or foe?

Abstract

The long established notion that UV irradiation is always harmful to patients with systemic lupus erythematosus has been challenged by some recent reports of benefit using a form of phototherapy with UV-A 1. In the review we discuss the different types of UV radiation, the links between certain forms of such radiation and clinical manifestations and consider the mechanisms involved.