ABSTRACT
This chapter explains psoralen and ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy to oral methoxsalen photochemotherapy in which a patient ingests methoxsalen and is subsequently exposed to an indoor artificial source of ultraviolet A 320–400 nm radiation. Successful use of PUVA therapy requires a well-informed physician, trained staff, and an educated, motivated patient. A careful evaluation of the patient is necessary because PUVA therapy is often a long-term treatment. The absolute and relative contraindications to PUVA therapy need to be kept in mind throughout the evaluation. The most common indication for PUVA therapy is disabling psoriasis unresponsive to topical therapy. PUVA therapy is indicated as the initial treatment for a few patients because of explosive onset of widespread psoriasis. PUVA therapy is more effective than ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy in clearing psoriasis in most patients, although NB-UVB may be comparable in moderate psoriasis.
