When is narrowband UVB phototherapy recommended for morphea?

Morphea, also called localised scleroderma, causes areas of skin to become firmer or tighter. UVB treatment reaches the skin and can influence inflammatory activity, so it is more relevant when changes are mainly superficial. It is not a suitable stand-alone answer for every pattern of morphea, especially when hardening extends deeply, crosses a joint, or affects important structures. The clinician will consider the colour, texture, spread, tenderness and activity of the patches before recommending a course.

Arrange assessment with a dermatologist who can distinguish active inflammation from established deep thickening. Tell the clinic about medicines that increase light sensitivity, previous reactions to light, and any history of skin cancer. During treatment, attend the planned sessions consistently and protect untreated skin as instructed. The treated area may become pink, warm or dry; report a stronger reaction so the dose can be reviewed. Keep follow-up appointments because morphea can change after the visible colour fades.

Contact your dermatologist promptly if a patch is rapidly enlarging, becomes painful, ulcerated or unusually warm, or begins limiting movement near a joint. Seek urgent help for facial or eye symptoms, extensive blistering, or a severe reaction after light exposure. These features need assessment rather than extra phototherapy at home.

Ask whether your morphea is superficial or deep, whether it appears active, what improvement can realistically be assessed, and how the treatment plan will protect unaffected skin. You can also ask how missed sessions, new medicines or a suspected light reaction should be handled.