How Do You Spell ERYTHEMA DOSE?

1. Erythema dose, commonly referred to as the MED (minimal erythema dose), is a term used in the field of dermatology and photobiology to measure the sensitivity of human skin to ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Specifically, it quantifies the amount of UVR required to produce a noticeable reddening or erythema of the skin, which is a typical acute reaction to UVR exposure. The MED is an important parameter used to determine appropriate dosage levels of UVR in medical treatments such as phototherapy and to assess the effectiveness of sunscreen products.

   To determine the MED, different areas of the skin are exposed to increasing amounts of UVR until a visible reddening occurs, indicating the individual's sensitivity threshold. This sensitivity may vary among individuals, with fair-skinned people generally having a lower MED due to lower levels of protective melanin in their skin. The MED is typically measured in terms of the energy per unit area of UVR (usually in units of joules per square meter) required to produce erythema.

   Understanding an individual's erythema dose is crucial to avoid harmful effects of UVR exposure, such as sunburn, skin aging, or an increased risk of skin cancer. It also helps healthcare professionals determine appropriate therapeutic UVR doses for conditions like psoriasis and vitiligo. Additionally, the MED serves as a standard for evaluating the efficacy of sunscreen products, indicating the level of protection they offer against UVR-induced erythema.

2. The minimum amount of x-rays or other form of radioactivity sufficient to produce an erythema.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ERYTHEMA DOSE