solar light for phototherapy

[docspaleh]

I have heard about using the sun light for phototherapy in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia with the help of some filters.Can someone throw some light!!!

[Stefan Johansson]

Hmm, I have heard the same but do not have any good sources. However, I would be very catious, phototherapy light has a relatively narrow wavelength intervall (around 400-500 nm I think) so some kind of filter would probably be needed. In addition, the risk of sunburns would likely be high, as the risk of temperature instability.

I found this conversation in the journal Indian Pediatrics, it gives further comments to read: http://indianpediatrics.net/aug2002/aug-791.htm

[rehman_naveed]

Sunlight is not at all recommended for babies with hyperbilirubinemia. See this journal. MJA Vol 178 21 April 2003. There is no evidence based to suggest or recommend it.

[docspaleh]

Sun light as a means of phototherapy in neonatal jaundice is in initial stages of development that is what I draw from my recent searches on the net.I was very much interested in the news the day I heard about it. It has been traditionally used in neonatal jaundice here and in many parts of India.In Ladakh we depend a lot on the sun. We have sun warmed room,solar lightening system, solar water heater, solar water pumps etc.So a phototherapy unit working with the help of sunlight will suit places like our a lot offcourse that will mean taking extra precaution for avoiding sunburns and hypothermia.I attach a link which is regarding the successful use of sunlight for phototherepy.http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=14118771.

[JACK]

A relevant link . (http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/178_08_210403/joh10652_fm.pdf)